KUCHING – The Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) has taken a significant step towards inclusive education by introducing the Sign Quran Teaching Competency Course (Level 1). The programme, held at the Grand Margherita Hotel from 12 to 14 July 2026, was officiated by the department’s Director, Sahibus Siyadah Tuan Haji Mual bin Haji Suaud.
Organised by the Our Brotherly Development Division, the course is designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of the Sign Quran concept. This initiative reflects JAIS’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that the disabled (OKU) community is not excluded from accessing Islamic education and deepening their knowledge of the Holy Quran.
In his opening remarks, Tuan Haji Mual highlighted the importance of equipping teaching staff with the necessary skills to deliver inclusive learning methods across Sarawak. He stressed that competent educators are vital in expanding the reach of this initiative, enabling more individuals to benefit from Quranic education regardless of physical limitations.
The three-day programme was facilitated by experts from the Ibnu Ummi Maktum Research Centre, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM). Their guidance ensured that participants received structured training and practical exposure to teaching techniques tailored for the OKU community.
Attendance included Divisional Islamic Religious Administration Officers and Islamisation Officers from various divisions, reflecting the department’s intention to spread the knowledge and skills gained to wider communities. JAIS expressed hope that participants would apply what they learned to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in their respective areas.
The Sign Quran initiative is part of a broader national effort to promote inclusive education. Across Malaysia, there has been growing recognition of the need to provide equal opportunities for disabled individuals, particularly in religious and cultural learning. Programmes such as this not only empower the OKU community but also strengthen social cohesion by ensuring that no group is marginalised.
Experts from USIM noted that the Sign Quran method is a pioneering approach that bridges communication barriers, allowing individuals with hearing impairments to engage meaningfully with Quranic teachings. By introducing this competency course, Sarawak is positioning itself as a leader in inclusive religious education.
Community leaders and participants welcomed the initiative, describing it as a milestone in promoting inclusivity. They emphasised that the course will help foster a more compassionate and understanding society, where education is accessible to all.
JAIS reaffirmed its commitment to continue developing programmes that support inclusivity, with plans to expand training opportunities and strengthen collaboration with academic institutions. The department believes that sustained efforts in this area will contribute to a more knowledgeable and united community.
The successful completion of the Sign Quran Teaching Competency Course marks the beginning of a wider rollout of inclusive teaching methods across Sarawak. As JAIS continues to champion accessibility, the initiative is expected to inspire further innovations in religious education, ensuring that the values of inclusivity and compassion remain central to community development.
