2025 MTHQA: Malaysian Champion Credits Learning from International Qaris
Aiman Ridhwan Mohamad Ramlan secured first place in the recitation category at the 65th International Quran Recital and Memorisation Assembly (MTHQA) in Kuala Lumpur. It was his second time competing in the event, having represented Malaysia in 2022.
The 27-year-old from Taiping, Perak, said the triumph marked the highest point of his career. “Alhamdulillah, I feel so excited and happy as this is my first time winning an international championship,” he told reporters at the prize-giving ceremony, Bernama reported.
Aiman, who began entering recitation contests at the age of 15, said he learned from Malaysian champions and built friendships with qaris from countries such as Iran and Indonesia.
These exchanges, he noted, deepened his understanding of taranum and refined his delivery. He also credited his preparation in tajweed, pronunciation, voice quality, and melodic recitation for his strong performance.
Earlier this year, during Ramadan, Aiman appeared on Iran’s Mahfel TV program. He delivered a recitation blending Egyptian style with Malaysian elements, followed by a nasheed about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In that appearance, he also spoke about Malaysia’s Quranic culture in its multicultural society.
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In the women’s category, Wan Sofea Aini Wan Mohd Zahidi of Kelantan won the qariah title despite battling illness shortly before the competition.
She said support from family, teachers, and friends kept her motivated. Two days before competing, she caught the flu, leaving her voice hoarse, but she was able to complete her recitation without major issues.
Winners in both recital and memorisation divisions each received RM40,000 in cash, jewellery from the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YaPEIM), other prizes, and certificates of appreciation.
This year’s event, held from Aug. 2 to 9 under the theme “Developing a MADANI Ummah,” brought together 71 participants from 49 countries.
Source: Agencies
