Kota Kinabalu: The Head of the Ophthalmology Department at Lahad Datu Hospital, Dr. Muhammad Hazim Sharum, was crowned as overall Champion in the Quran Recitation category at the Sabah State-Level Quran Recitation and Memorization Assembly 2026, here, last Friday.
Competing in the adult category, he scored 95pc to clinch the top title, followed by North West Coast division qari Muhammad Imar Jiman in second place, while Hamdi Yusop @ Yusof from the South West Coast division finished third.
Dr Muhammad Hazim, 37, described the victory as a responsibility to continuously improve his recitation despite his demanding schedule as a medical specialist.
“Reciting the Quran must be done daily. I usually make time after prayers or whenever I am free to practice according to the national-level competition format.
“There is no specific number of practice sessions – whenever I have the opportunity, I train,” he said when met after the closing and prize presentation ceremony of the state-level event.
Originally from Sungai Buloh, Selangor, he emphasised the importance of ‘talaqqi’ (face-to-face learning) with a Quran teacher to correct recitation in detail.
“My personal practice sessions usually range from 15 minutes to two hours a day, while talaqqi sessions can take longer because each mistake is corrected one by one.
“Sometimes time is limited, but I try to make space to practice and meet my teacher. If we cannot meet in person, I send voice recordings via WhatsApp to receive feedback and guidance,” he said.
D. Muhammad Hazim said he is inspired by several renowned local and international Qaris, including Muhd Anuar Ghazali and Amirahman Abas, to refine his ‘taranum’ (melodic intonation) and deepen his appreciation of Quranic verses.
He will represent Sabah at the national-level competition in Kuala Terengganu – his first appearance at that stage.
For his achievement, he received an Umrah package sponsored by Sawit Kinabalu Sdn Bhd, a tablet sponsored by the Sabah Federal Secretary’s Office, a wristwatch, religious books, a set of attire and a Quran, as well as RM10,000 in cash.
His victory not only elevates his personal achievement but also reflects the professionalism of frontliners who excel in spiritual pursuits.
Meanwhile, at the same event, North West Coast division representative Mohammad Khayruddin Zakwan Jaimis was crowned Overall Champion in the Quran Memorization category.
Sabah’s Governor Tun Musa Aman presented the prizes to the winners.
