The Bangsamoro community is once again filled with pride as 17-year-old Bangsamoro hafidh, Muzaher Suweb Bito, secured the 3rd place award at the recently concluded 27th Session of the Dubai International Holy Qur’an Contest held from March 12 to 23, 2024, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This recognition has not only brought honor to the region but also reignited the fervor of faith and determination among the Bangsamoro people as the entire Muslim community reconnects with the Creator in this blessed month of Ramadan.
Fondly called “Bidin” by his parents and families, his journey toward deepening his Islamic faith began at the tender age of 7 under the careful guidance of his parents, both ustadz and ustadza.
In 2020, Bito began his studies at Markadz Ibrahim in Brgy. Kurintem, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, and embarked on the noble path of memorizing the Holy Qur’an as a prerequisite for becoming a hafidh. Marked by countless hours of focused study, perseverance, and deep reflection, he succeeded.
Hafidh is an Arabic term that refers to Muslims who have completely memorized the Qur’an. Hafidha is the female equivalent. This word literally translates to “guardian or custodian,” signifying their notable role in carrying out the promise of safeguarding and preserving the true scriptures and essence of the Qur’an.
After rigorous screening by the Jumeyyatul Huffaz bil Filbeen, Inc., a body composed of many ulama across the country, Suweb was chosen to represent the BARMM region and the Philippines in the prestigious Qur’an reading contest.
Sheikh Mas’od Lantong, chair of the Shu-unul Qur’an and president of Jumeyyatul Huffaz bil Filbeen, Inc., served as his mentor in preparation for his significant journey to Dubai.
According to him, Bito possesses the best qualities among all contenders. His composure under pressure and his experience, even at such a young age, set him apart.
“Ikaisa na di seka nin lumepa. Matag da talutalu nin na apya nengka tekawan na di ka shock. Ikaduwa na su experience nin. Wata pan na mamatya den sa Qur’an enggu mamung den sa mga contest,” Sheikh Lantong said.
[First, he doesn’t panic. Although he is a silent kid, even in sudden moments when you want to test him, he is not easily startled. Second is his experience. He has been reading the Qur’an since he was a child and has been exposed to many related contests.]
With nerves of steel, these qualities shone through during the days-long competition. In front of the crowd, Bito’s performance mesmerized the judges and audience alike.
Likewise, many Bangsamoro were cheerful behind in front of their screen as they watch the live streaming, all in support for his success.
To Bito, his performance transcends mere competition; it is a testament to his relentless dedication to preserving the Qur’an and his strong faith through proper recitation.
“Nailay ku a tidtu tidtu sa ten ngana nin i kumapet sa Qur’an nu Allahutaalah na pedsiyapen sekanin nu Allahutaala. Sa mga kangudan sa Bangsamoro, kapetan tanu den sa mapya i Qur’an a niya. Batya nu, kagina niya den ba su kakapetan a di tanu nin den matadin,” he uttered, reminding the Bangsamoro youth of the essence of putting the holy words of Allah into our heart and mind and encouraging them to start dedicating their time to read it.
[I have proven that those who truly and sincerely hold onto the Qur’an of Allah are blessed by Allah. To the Bangsamoro youth, cling tightly to the Qur’an. Read it, for it will never lead us astray.]
“Langun man na lukes na kalinyan nin a ma hafidh i wata nin. Sa mawli a gay na su kapya na kina disiplina endu kinapangai ta sa wata ta na makadtabang salekita,” Muhidin Ibrahim, one of the avid audience of the said Qur’an competition, shared.
[All (Muslim) parents desire to have a hafidh child. How well we discipline and educate our children in this life will benefit us in the hereafter.]
Meanwhile, Sheikh Lantong urged everyone to take advantage of the technology we have to do more good deeds.
“Saguna na pakinugunan tanu su mga cellphone tanu. Kena bu inan para sa kabaguka sa social media, kapakay ka pen download sa app a Qur’an. Apya da den tanggit nengka sa masela den ged a Qur’an na mabatya nengka bun sa cellphone,” he said.
[We should take advantage of our mobile phones, which can be used for more than just scrolling through social media. You can download applications for easy access to the Qur’an. Even without carrying a bulky physical copy, you can still perform more good deeds.]
Numerous videos of Bito reciting Qur’anic verses from his early years are now circulating on Facebook, showcasing his dedication and humble beginnings at such a young age.
Today, he is preparing for another round of screening conducted by Jumeyyatul Huffaz bil Filbeen, Inc. to select the region and nation’s representative for another prestigious international Qur’an reading competition in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Bito’s victory has resonated throughout the region, inspiring a new generation of youth to pursue excellence in their religious studies.
Indeed, his story is not merely an individual triumph but also a source of community pride and collective aspiration. (Bai Omairah Yusop/BIO)
