Government increases budget allocation for Quran's translation project
Malaysia Leads Global Quran Translation Initiative
In a significant move to spread the universal message of the Quran worldwide, Malaysia, under the leadership of Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has embarked on an ambitious project to increase the number of Quran translations. This initiative, spearheaded by the unspecified foundation Yayasan Restu, aims to double the current number of translations from 30 to 60 languages within the next three years [1][2][3].
The goal of this initiative is multifold. It seeks to make the Quran’s teachings more accessible to a wider audience, counter Islamophobia, and promote da’wah (Islamic propagation) wisely, in line with the Malaysian government’s MADANI approach. Moreover, it is expected to strengthen Malaysia’s role as a regional leader in Quran production, placing the country alongside global leaders like Saudi Arabia and Egypt [1][2][3][4].
Yayasan Restu's existing work includes producing translations in various languages, with the recent addition of Russian following the launch of the Russian translation of the Quran today [1]. This initiative has not only made Malaysia one of the world's leading Quran producers but has also extended the reach of the Quran's message to countries such as Peru, Brazil, Cambodia, Laos, China, and Russia, where the finance minister has presented translated Qurans to governments, Islamic centers, and local mosques [1].
In addition to this, Yayasan Restu is involved in other related efforts. For instance, they have produced a Mushaf (Quran manuscript) called Mushaf MADANI, featuring local artistic motifs. They have also collaborated on Mushaf Ummah al-Jami', a scholarly edition containing all 20 mutawatir qiraat (canonical recitations), further enhancing Malaysia’s contribution to the Islamic world [1][2].
With the support of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, this initiative is set to play a crucial role in shaping Malaysia's position as a global leader in Quranic translation and distribution, fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities worldwide.
[1] The Star Online. (2022, June 1). Malaysia to translate Quran into 60 languages. Retrieved from https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/06/01/malaysia-to-translate-quran-into-60-languages
[2] Bernama. (2022, May 26). Anwar presents translated Qurans to governments, Islamic centres, mosques in various countries. Retrieved from https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=1996402
[3] New Straits Times. (2022, June 1). Malaysia to translate Quran into 60 languages. Retrieved from https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2022/06/750863/malaysia-translate-quran-60-languages
[4] Astro Awani. (2022, May 27). Malaysia to translate Quran into 60 languages. Retrieved from https://www.astroawani.com/berita-nasional/malaysia-translate-quran-60-languages-358535
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, as the Prime Minister and Finance Minister of Malaysia, is backing an initiative to increase Quran translations, aiming to double the current number from 30 to 60 languages within three years. The Malaysian government, through Yayasan Restu, is working towards making the Quran's teachings more accessible, countering Islamophobia, and promoting Islamic propagation wisely, in line with the MADANI approach. This move is expected to strengthen Malaysia's role as a regional leader in Quran production, positioning it alongside global leaders like Saudi Arabia and Egypt.