SHAH ALAM – The Malaysia #QuranHour 2024 provides a special opportunity for Muslims to dedicate one hour to studying and reflecting on the Quran.
Council of Directors of Public Libraries of Malaysia (MPAM) chairman Ungku Noorakmal Ungku Sulaiman said as an entity that consistently supported this programme each year, he was confident that it could attract public interest, especially among the younger generation to engage with and explore the essence of the holy book.
"Since the Malaysia #QuranHour began 10 years ago, nearly 1,708 public libraries have been involved in making this programme a success, either at their respective locations or by attending the main venue.
"MPAM also assists in terms of publicity and promotion to encourage Muslims to pause from their daily activities and focus on Malaysia #QuranHour this year.
"Through the chosen theme, ‘Jiwa Merdeka: Memaknai Rukun Negara’ (Free Soul: Understanding the Rukun Negara), this programme can spread the message of love, peace, universal brotherhood and embody the principles of the Rukun Negara," she told Sinar on Monday.
During the Malaysia #QuranHour 2024 Media Synergy Briefing on July 8, Yayasan Warisan Ummah Ikhlas (WUIF) founder Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacub said instilling and understanding the Quran in one’s heart was the only solution to address the moral decline in society.
He said to achieve this mission, the media must play a role in correcting societal morals, especially as the country was currently facing high levels of moral decay due to rampant verbal abuse and slander on social media.
The briefing was also attended by media representatives from Astro Oasis, TV9, Bernama, TV Alhijrah, Zayan, Astro Awani, Nu Ideaktiv, IKIM FM, Denaihati.com and Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) as the main broadcasters of Malaysia #QuranHour.
Elaborating further, Noorakmal said her organisation also played an important role in promoting the event by providing special spaces for students or the public to read the Quran during their free time.
Meanwhile, Johor Public Library Corporation (PPAJ) director said access to information for Quranic reflection was also provided to enhance religious knowledge.
"We hope that this programme will continue to grow as an initiative that not only connects Muslims with the Quran but also builds knowledgeable, ethical and community-serving individuals," she added.