Malaysian Wins International Quran Recital Competition

KUALA LUMPUR, July 14 (Bernama) -- Muhammad Anuar Ghazali of Malaysia won the men's category of the 54th International Quran Recital Competition at Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) Friday night. Anuar, 36, who recited Surah al-Hud won with 95.33 percent marks. The runner-up was Amin Pouya of Iran (91.67) while the third placing went to Raden Harmoko Baharudin of Indonesia (90.16). The women's category was won by Hasnae Khoulali, 19, of Morocco who recited Surah al-Israk (94 percent). She beat Rahmawati Bakri Hunawa of Indonesia and Che Aminah Che Awang of Malaysia. Although all three received similar percentage of votes, Hasnae was judged the winner based on style, pronounciation, command of language and voice. The winner in both categories received cash of RM40,000 (US$12,9023), trophy, souvenir and certificate from Malaysian king Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah. The Queen, Tuanku Hajah Haminah, was also present. The runner-up in both categories received cash RM30,000 (US$9,677), trophy, souvenir and certificate. Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, wife Norainee Abd Rahman and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Jamil Khir Baharom. Meanwhile, Anuar from the Malaysian east coast state of Kelantan, said he was thankful for the win especially when it was his first international Quran recital competition. "I fell in love with verses from the Quran since form one and stayed up at night reading them," said the Islamic education teacher. Women's winner Hasnae thanked the organiser and all parties for supporting her in the quran recital competition. "Its all due to Allah's will and prayers from family members," said the university student. Ninety-nine reciters from 44 countries participated in the 54th International Quran Recital Competition starting July 6. -- BERNAMA