MAKKAH, 13 October — An international Qur’an recitation and memorization competition began here yesterday with 188 contestants from 25 countries and 71 Islamic centers and organizations participating.
The nine-day contest is held in five categories. Yesterday, the jury heard Qur’an recitation by 35 contestants.
Each participant will receive SR500 in addition to valuable prizes. First five winners in each category will receive cash prizes worth a total of SR888,000.
Mohammed Thani Abdullah from Nigeria, a member of the jury, highlighted the significance of the annual event, saying it will increase the love of Qur’an among Muslims.
“Teaching the Qur’an is the best way to protect our children from cultural onslaughts,” he said.
He stressed the need for opening Qur’an memorization centers at all Islamic schools.
Abdullah Al-Mazroue, acting secretary-general of the charitable societies for Qur’an memorization in the Kingdom, said a number of Saudi organizations are actively taking part in the contest.
