AS BRUNEI Darussalam continues its journey towards becoming a Zikir Nation through the development of its Islamic populace, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Deputy Sultan, yesterday urged the Muslim community to reflect upon themselves and their intentions to receive continuous blessings from Allah the Almighty.

As Muslims around the world are aware of the significance of the hereafter, the Deputy Sultan reminded that though success in this life is highly sought after, successes in the hereafter should also be made an important priority and that al-Quran is a significant enabler in achieving a better Muslim way of life.

During the Convocation Ceremony for students from Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (ITQSHHB) yesterday held at the International Convention Centre, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah stated that the teachings of al-Quran and therefore the teachings of Islam will aid in the facilitation of bettering the Muslim Ummah as a whole.

With the marking of yesterday’s milestone that is in line with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s mission in uplifting the learning of al-Quran, the Deputy Sultan said education inspired by al-Quran “seeks to develop a community that is righteous and just based on compassion to strengthen relations, to promote tolerance, responsibility as well as actions that are based on its teachings”.

Addressing the 13 graduates as well as invited guests, the Deputy Sultan expressed his hope that the students’ achievement will further fuel their commitment in expanding their knowledge to better serve not only the country, but also the country’s religion.

“Blessings will only be bestowed upon a community that is faithful and pious, like Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had endeavoured for us,” he said.

As he called upon the graduates to continue their efforts in preserving their personal relationship with the Quran that will encompass all aspects of not just their lives but also those around them, the Deputy Sultan said that these students have become role models for the country’s Muslim population.

As their achievements are a reflection of their commitment, the Deputy Sultan acknowledged that memorising al-Quran is no easy feat as we face globalisation challenges that test an individual’s discipline and dedication.

“Our emphasis on al-Quran such as its recitation, memorisation as well as its study is our contribution in the realisation of Brunei Darussalam becoming a Zikir Nation,” he said.

While congratulating the graduates, the Deputy Sultan also extended his commendations to their parents as their “sacrifices, support and encouragement are the sources of invaluable inspiration for the students’ success”. - Borneo Bulletin (14 November 2014)