SIMUNJAN – Efforts to restore Simunjan’s reputation in Quranic scholarship and competitions were renewed as Assemblyman Awla Dris urged the younger generation to strengthen their mastery of the Al-Quran and reclaim the district’s former standing at state and national levels.
He delivered the call while officiating the closing of the Khatamal Al-Quran Ceremony involving 10 Primary Six pupils of SK Sungai Apin, held at Dewan Bestari Budiman on Thursday.
Awla expressed gratitude for the smooth organisation of the programme and praised the dedication of teachers, particularly the Islamic Education panel, for nurturing Quranic literacy among pupils.
“Alhamdulillah, we gather today in peace and good weather. Congratulations to all teachers who have guided our children onto the right path,” he said.
He reminded pupils who completed their khatam to remain consistent in their recitation as they grow older. “When life gets busier, it becomes harder to maintain fluency. If we stop reading and opening the Quran regularly, we will forget. That is why the habit of reading with full focus is important to sustain fluency,” he added.
Awla shared his personal experience, noting that his own hectic schedule since secondary school had affected his fluency over time. He stressed that this should serve as a lesson for the younger generation to stay close to the Quran while they still have learning opportunities.
Calling for renewed community spirit, Awla urged children and residents to help restore Simunjan’s former reputation in Quranic competitions.
“Simunjan used to be unbeatable in the 70s and 80s. We regularly had representatives at the national level. But now, it is difficult even to break through at the divisional level,” he said, pointing out that neighbouring districts such as Sebuyau have surpassed Simunjan in recent years.
Despite arriving fatigued after attending the State Legislative Assembly sitting and a dinner event the night before, Awla said his presence at the school reflected his affection and commitment to the community, describing SK Sungai Apin as being “close to his heart.”
The ceremony concluded on a meaningful note, highlighting the school’s ongoing efforts to instil Quranic appreciation among its pupils.
Also present were Simunjan District Education Officer Hasbi Ancheh, SK Sungai Apin headmaster Ibrahim Lobot, and Sarawak YADIM director Awang Nurhadi Awang Mat.
Observers note that the renewed emphasis on Quranic excellence aligns with Sarawak’s broader vision of nurturing holistic human capital, where religious literacy complements academic and social development.
