ISLAMABAD(National times)- Pakistan hosted its first-ever international Quran recitation competition, with participants from 37 countries attending. A Malaysian Qari secured the top position.
The prize distribution ceremony at Islamabad’s Convention Centre began with a recitation by Qari Syed Sadaqat Ali. Speaking at the event, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf welcomed the Qaris from around the world, saying participants from 37 countries had travelled to Pakistan. Addressing the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said the recitation competition reflects Pakistan’s efforts to promote unity within the Muslim Ummah. He said Pakistan is the only country established in the name of the Kalima, adding that the youth must strengthen their connection with the Holy Quran. Ishaq Dar added that joining a spiritually enriching gathering of Qaris was an honour for him. He said the Quran is the spiritual heritage of the Muslim Ummah and teaches peace, harmony, mercy and justice, stressing that the country’s governance must draw guidance from it. The first-place winner received a prize of Rs 5 million, the second-place winner Rs 3 million, and the third-place winner Rs 2 million.
Malaysia’s Qari Aiman Rizwan bin Muhammad Ramlan won the first position, while Iran’s Qari Adnan took second place and Pakistan’s Qari Abdul Rasheed secured third. The Afghan participant came fourth, followed by contestants from Indonesia and Morocco in fifth and sixth positions respectively.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar and Federal Minister Sardar Yousaf distributed the prizes among the winners.