HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam last night urged Muslims in the Sultanate to hold fast to Al-Quran as Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his companions adhered to the holy book to not merely memorise and recite from it but to also understand and practise all of its teachings.

His Majesty delivered a titah to mark the National Level Nuzul Al-Quran 1435 Hijrah celebration at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

The monarch emphasised that with constant understanding and practice of the teachings of Al-Quran, all ideals that are not in tandem with Islam such as secularism, pluralism, liberalism and feminism can be diverted.

The monarch said that practising anything that contradicts Islam is disobeying Al-Quran or in other words denying the verses of Al-Quran which is prohibited and even condemned by Allah the Almighty as decreed in Surah Al-Jumu’ah, Verse 5.

“Which is why in Brunei, we must make sure we truly adhere to Al-Quran … do not underestimate the teachings of Al-Quran and do not merely follow it partially while other parts of it are rejected … this cannot be this way.”

His Majesty reminded that we should not be irrational in matters of Dakwah and that we should avoid getting caught up in the behaviour of imitating or adopting the recipes of others recklessly.

The monarch added that we should also avoid importing problems, especially in religious practices.

In line with the theme of this year’s celebration, “Al-Quran as the Torch to an Excellent Ummah”, the monarch said that we should be grateful that this country possessed a book, Mushaf Brunei Darussalam and Translations (Full 30 Juzuks Edition).

“This is a historical achievement for Brunei Darussalam. This book is the result of (efforts by) locals who are among scholars and graduates from the Al-Azhar University. I hope it will be reading material and reference for Muslims in the Sultanate.”

His Majesty mentioned that an award had brought honour to Brunei Darussalam. The Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Tahfiz Al-Quran Institute was awarded international recognition, the Ma’had Tahfiz Al-Quran Al-Karim Mithali award for the year 1435 Hijrah at the 7th International Award Presentation of His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud for the Al-Quran.

“With this very meaningful recognition, I am convinced that it will be an inspiration for (experts in) Brunei Darussalam to continue being the best Al-Quran experts that place Al-Quran at the highest point in all aspects of life.” - Borneo Bulletin (15 July 2014)