As part of its ongoing efforts to serve the Holy Quran and spread its tolerant teachings throughout the world, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the Religious Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Bosnia and Herzegovina, held a local Quran recitation competition for boys and girls in Montenegro. The capital, Podgorica, hosted this religious event, which reflects the deep fraternal ties between the Kingdom and the Muslims of the Balkans.
The competition commenced on Monday, the 2nd of Rajab, 1447 AH, and the Quranic recitations continued for three days, culminating on Wednesday, the 4th of Rajab, 1447 AH, with a grand closing ceremony. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including the Grand Mufti and Head of the Islamic Community of Montenegro, Sheikh Rifat Fejzić, along with a representative from the Embassy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Religious Attaché. During the ceremony, commemorative shields, certificates of appreciation, and monetary prizes were awarded to the winners and outstanding participants, and the occasion was captured in photographs.
Competition details and competition categories
The competition witnessed widespread participation and engagement, with over 47 contestants from various cities and regions in Montenegro taking part in the preliminary rounds. Following rigorous selection processes, 24 contestants qualified for the final stage, competing in six categories equally divided between boys and girls. The competition categories were structured around three levels of memorization: the first category required memorizing ten parts (Juz'), the second five parts, and the third two parts of the Holy Quran.
The Kingdom's leading role in serving the Quran
This competition is an extension of the noble mission that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has undertaken since its founding in caring for the Holy Quran, through printing, publishing, and teaching. These activities, implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs abroad, are an integral part of the Kingdom's soft power, which aims to promote moderation and tolerance, and to encourage young people in Muslim communities and minorities to adhere to their Islamic identity and authentic religious values.
The strategic importance of the competition in the Balkans
Organizing such competitions in the Balkans, and specifically in Montenegro, is of particular importance given the pressing need to connect new generations with authentic sources of Islamic jurisprudence. These events contribute to strengthening the Kingdom's cultural and religious presence and underscore its leading role in the Muslim world. Furthermore, the sponsorship of this event by the Islamic Community of Montenegro reflects deep appreciation for Saudi Arabia's efforts in supporting official religious institutions and fostering cooperation that serves the interests of Islam and Muslims.
