Indonesia, Morocco emerge champions at Quran Recital Assembly

The 55th International Tilawah Al-Quran (Quran Recital Assembly) held at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) for eight nights ending today created history for Indonesian participant Dasrizal Marah Nainin after he emerged champion for the male category.

The event also brought luck for Hajar Boussaq from Morocco who was named as winner for the female category.

Meanwhile, Malaysian male reciter Anuar Hasin placed third and Malaysia's female reciter Hanimzah Jalaluddin was runner-up.

Dasrizal, 28, recited Surah Thaha (verse 66) at the event which allowed him to defeat Iranian participant Mohammad Mashmoul.

The first prize winner for both categories took home 350g gold pieces worth RM70,000 and cash of RM40,000, accompanying trophy, souvenir and certificate of appreciation presented by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah.

Accompanying Tuanku Abdul Halim to the ceremony was Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tuanku Hajah Haminah.

Also present at the event were the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and wife Toh Puan Majimor Shariff and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom.

Dasrizal, when met by reporters after the prize giving ceremony, described the win as a reward for his efforts and support from family members.

"There's nothing I can say about this long awaited win, but I am thankful to be one of the best," said the Maahad Tinggi Agama Islam lecturer.

Hajar Boussaq, 23, said the win was a stepping stone for her to widen her knowledge and skills in Al-Quran recitation.

"I dedicate this win to the Malik Mohammed VI government and feel thankful to have been chosen as winner of this challenging international competition," said the student of Islamic Studies at Universiti Hamzah II which was translated by Islamic Development Department (Jakim) staff Khalid Osman.

Malaysian reciter Hanimzah said she will continue to work on her recitation which she admitted has much to be improved.

"My efforts are not wasted and I am happy with this success," said the Jakim officer.

A total of 43 participants were each a given consolation prize of RM3,000, souvenir and certificate of participation.

The recital assembly themed 'Wasatiyyah Tonggak Kesatuan Ummah' (Moderation the Key to Unity of the People) began on June 29 and was participated by 59 individuals comprising 37 male and 22 female reciters from 48 countries including Sudan, Timor Leste, Egypt, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.