The opening ceremony of the contest, named “Quran Recitation and Tawasheeh for Peace in South” was attended by political officials and religious leaders.
Chotnarin Kerdsom, the province’s governor, said in an address that Thailand is a multicultural society that respects differences and diversity in religion and culture.
Islamic culture, in particular, holds a special place with its recitation of the Quran in a melodious manner and the performance of devotional songs, he said.
“However, changes in society and the environment have led to some traditions and cultures fading from the minds of the youth. Therefore, it is essential to preserve and encourage the younger generation to understand and take pride in their culture.”
Niwat Sawatkaew, the deputy president of Hat Yai University, said that the aim of the competition is to encourage young Muslims in the south to engage in preserving their history and establishing peace in the southern border provinces, as well as to strengthen understanding and good relations among various ethnic groups in Thailand.
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Over 1,000 participants will take part in different activities, such as Quran recitation, memorization, and Tawasheeh (for both men and women), along with a speech contest on the topic of “soft power”, he noted.
He went on to say that such activities are not only suitable and essential for promoting art and culture but also for encouraging young people to take pride in their cultural heritage and participate in social development.
“Furthermore, this event represents a synergy of collaboration between Hat Yai University and various entities, including government, the private sector, and social organizations, aimed at preserving Islamic characteristics in the southern region, promoting peace in the southern border provinces, and fostering harmonious coexistence in a diverse multicultural community.”
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