DELI SERDANG | INDATANEWS.COM - A solemn and vibrant atmosphere marked the official opening of the 40th Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) of North Sumatra Province 2026, held at Astaka Square in Percut Sei Tuan on Monday, June 15, 2026.
The event was formally inaugurated by Indonesia's
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Romo Muhammad Syafii, drawing thousands of participants and spectators from across the province.
A total of 1,109 participants, along with three special kafilah contingents, are competing in this prestigious provincial-level Qur'anic recitation and interpretation event.
Symbolic Opening Marks Start Of CompetitionThe opening ceremony began with the symbolic unveiling of the Holy Qur'an mushaf, signifying the commencement of all competition categories.
The moment was warmly received by participants, officials, and the public, who filled the venue in a deeply spiritual atmosphere enriched by Qur'anic recitations.
The 10-day event features multiple categories, including Tilawah, Tahfiz, Tafsir, and other Qur'anic disciplines aimed at strengthening Islamic education and moral values.
DELI SERDANG REGENT: Deli Serdang Regent Asri Ludin Tambunan delivers a speech during the opening ceremony of MTQ 2026 in Deli Serdang. (PHOTO: Edi Saputra)
Regional Leaders Streess Unity And Character BuildingSupport for the event was strongly expressed by the regional leadership of Asri Ludin Tambunan and TP PKK Chair Jelita Asri Ludin Tambunan.
North Sumatra Governor
Bobby Nasution also attended the opening ceremony, highlighting the importance of collaboration among regional stakeholders.
In his remarks, Asri Ludin Tambunan stated that MTQ is not merely a competition but a platform for strengthening character development among the younger generation.
"MTQ is both an honor and a moment to strengthen unity and religious values," he said.
MTQ As A Strategic Platform For National ValuesDeputy Minister Romo Muhammad Syafii emphasized that MTQ plays a strategic role beyond competition, contributing to national unity, religious values, and social harmony.
He also noted that participants represent their regions as ambassadors of Qur'anic values and cultural identity.
In addition, he announced that two outstanding winners would receive a special pilgrimage reward to Mecca as recognition of their achievement.
Governor
Bobby Nasution further stressed the importance of integrating Qur'anic values into public service and governance, especially in strengthening ethical leadership and community life.
As additional encouragement, 10 participants were awarded Umrah pilgrimage trips.
FULL SUPPORT:
Deli Serdang Regent
Asri Ludin Tambunan expresses full support for the MTQ event featuring 1,109 participants. (PHOTO: Edi Saputra)
56 Best Participants Prepared For National LevelFrom the competition results, 56 top participants were selected to undergo special training ahead of the national MTQ competition in Semarang.
This program aims to enhance competitiveness and improve the quality of North Sumatra's Qur'anic reciters at the national stage.
Strong Public Anticipation And Orderly ImplementationSince early morning, the Astaka Square venue in Percut Sei Tuan was filled with kafilah groups, families, and visitors.
The atmosphere grew increasingly spiritual with continuous Qur'anic recitations resonating throughout the venue.
The local government and organizing committee ensured that the entire event ran smoothly, safely, and in an orderly manner.
The MTQ 2026 not only serves as a competition but also as a major forum for strengthening faith, unity, and Islamic values within society. (IDNC)
REPORTER:
Edi Saputra | EDITOR:
Fik Sagala