Pahang Sultan calls on Muslims to return to Quran amid conflicts in the Middle East
The 11th edition of World #QuranHour this year highlighted Surah al-Muzzammil as its theme, with the mission of "Shaping the Human Self Before Changing the World."
KUALA LUMPUR - The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has called on Muslims to return to the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at a time when conflicts and wars continue to affect several parts of the world, particularly the Middle East.
Speaking during the World #QuranHour 2026 programme at the Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) on Wednesday, the ruler said the sufferings experienced by Muslims in conflict zones were also deeply felt by Malaysians.
"At a time when the world is being shaken by conflict and war in several regions, our hearts also feel the suffering of Muslims. Many of our fellow believers are facing extremely difficult trials, particularly in the Middle East.
"In such circumstances, the most appropriate response for us as believers is to return to the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)," he said.
The event was graced by the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
Also present were Deputy Economy Minister Mohd Shahar Abdullah; IIUM president Tan Sri Abdul Rashid Hussain; rector Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Osman Bakar; Warisan Ummah Ikhlas Foundation founder Datuk Hussamuddin Yaacub; and Karangkraf co-founder Datuk Muhammad Nasir Hamzah.
The 11th edition of World #QuranHour this year highlighted Surah al-Muzzammil as its theme, with the mission of "Shaping the Human Self Before Changing the World."
For the first time, the programme was conducted in English to align with the movement’s aim of bringing the ummah closer to the Quran by encouraging a reset in mindset through the principles of Read, Understand and Practise the Quran.
The use of English also welcomed participation from international representatives and diplomats, including those from Iran, Oman, Tajikistan, Russia, Jordan, Afghanistan and Iraq, who have consistently supported the World #QuranHour campaign.
Al-Sultan Abdullah said Muslims should continue to pray for guidance, protection and safety for Muslims across the world, while also striving for unity within the ummah.
"This is like the Malay proverb that reminds us ‘bersatu kita teguh, bercerai kita roboh’ (together we stand united, divided we fall). The Quran contains many stories about the Bani Israel. These stories are not merely records of past history, but they contain lessons for us to reflect upon.
"It reminds us that Allah has long commanded believers to remain steadfast, to always be prepared and to remain aware of the demands of justice, faith and responsibility. The Quran also repeatedly calls on us to read it.
"Read the Quran because it brings calmness and peace to the heart. Read the Quran because it provides guidance when we face uncertainty. Read the Quran because it reminds us of Allah.
"When we return to the Quran, we are actually returning to the foundation of the ummah’s strength," he said.
He said even when Muslims do not fully understand the meaning of the Quran, the act of reciting it can soften the heart and strengthen one’s connection with the Creator.
Referring to Surah al-Muzzammil, Al-Sultan Abdullah said the chapter carries an important lesson for Muslims.
He said when the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was first entrusted with delivering the message of Islam, Allah commanded him to stand during the night to pray and recite the Quran with reflection and patience.
"Before action came spiritual strength, before struggle came devotion that was strengthened first. True strength begins with our relationship with the Quran," he added.
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