PM Tarique Rahman felicitates Bangladeshi winners of Saudi Qur’an competition

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday felicitated four Bangladeshi Hafezs who won awards at the 46th King Abdulaziz International Holy Qur’an Competition in Saudi Arabia.

At a reception at the Bangladesh Secretariat, the prime minister said the government would continue to recognise and encourage talented young people.

“The award you have won is not merely your own achievement; I consider it an achievement for all Muslims in Bangladesh,” she said.

Tarique Rahman said recognising talented young people was part of the government’s policy and that supporting them would benefit future generations and the country.

“If talented individuals are encouraged and duly recognised, future generations and the country will certainly reap the benefits,” she said.

Responding to concerns raised by the winners’ teachers, she assured them that the government would explore ways to address their problems. She also pledged government support for participation in future international Qur’an competitions.

“We want our young people to participate in such international competitions and, through their participation, bring honour and glory to themselves, the country, and its people,” she said.

Bangladeshi winners

Mohammad Zakaria secured first place in the 15-Para Hifz, Tajweed and beautiful recitation category at the Saudi competition, which drew participants from 133 countries.

Sheikh Mohammad Mahmudul Hasan Ashrafi won third place in the 30-Para category.

Rabeta Binte Ramzan and Musfira Binte Mahmud secured third places in the 15-Para and 30-Para categories respectively.

During the reception, Tarique Rahman presented books to the winners and listened to their recitations of the Surahs for which they received recognition.

Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain and State Minister Mohammad Shamim Kaiser were among those present at the event.