Maldivian Qari with Autism Draws Attention at 2025 MTHQA
Ahmed Nabeeh Abdul Gaadhir, who is nonverbal due to his condition, is representing the Maldives in the high-profile Quran competition, which has drawn 71 participants from 49 countries.
Despite his communication challenges, Ahmed is determined to prove that disability is no barrier to excellence in Quran recitation, Berita reported on Tuesday.
“Our goal isn’t just to win first place,” said his younger brother, Mohamed Nahzaan. “It’s to send a message to the world that individuals like Ahmed can stand shoulder to shoulder with others. Even if they face disabilities and pain, they are still capable of demonstrating their abilities.”
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Ahmed’s interest in the Quran emerged at the age of two, when his family noticed his deep fascination with the melodic recitation of verses wherever he went.
Training him, however, was not without challenges. According to his family, his emotional sensitivity and difficulty in expressing feelings made the learning process particularly demanding.
Ahmed is not new to international competitions. He has previously represented his country at events in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, frequently advancing to the final rounds.
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MTHQA 2025 runs from August 2 to 9 under the theme “Developing a MADANI Community.” Winners will receive cash prizes of up to RM40,000, along with jewelry sponsored by Malaysia’s Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YAPEIM).
Source: Agencies
