Young Qur'an Reciter from Bima Wins International MTQ in Iraq, Receives Free Education Scholarship
Muhammad Zian Fahrezi, a young Qur’an reciter from Bima City, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), who won first place in the 2026 International Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) competition in Karbala, Iraq, has been recognised by President Prabowo Subianto. The recognition took the form of free education costs through university level.
“Alhamdulillah, the President has given Zian free education costs through university,” said Muhammad Zian Fahrezi’s father, Ahmad Azka Fuad, to detikBali on Wednesday, 11 March 2026.
The recognition was conveyed directly by Prabowo immediately after attending the Nuzulul Qur’an 1447 H/2026 M ceremony at the State Palace, Jakarta, on the evening of Tuesday, 10 March 2026. Muhammad Zian Fahrezi also attended and opened the ceremony by reciting verses from the Holy Qur’an.
As Zian’s father, Azka said he could hardly find words to express his feelings. For him, the recognition from Prabowo for his eldest son was an achievement that was truly honourable and deserving of gratitude.
In addition to the recognition from Prabowo, Azka continued, Zian has also received numerous bonuses in the form of cash prizes and umrah pilgrimage packages from various institutions and government bodies. One such bonus came from the Ministry of Religion (Kemenag). “This is all a blessing from the Qur’an,” he said.
Furthermore, after winning first place in the 2026 International MTQ in Iraq, Zian has frequently been invited to attend various activities and events. One such invitation came from the National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, for an iftar gathering at Police Headquarters not long ago.
“God willing, on 26 March, Zian will also be invited by the Minister of Agriculture, Amran Sulaiman, for an event in Makassar,” Azka added.
According to detiknews, President Prabowo Subianto expressed appreciation to young qori Muhammad Zian Fahrezi, who performed the recitation of sacred Qur’anic verses during the Nuzulul Quran commemoration at the State Palace, Jakarta. Prabowo even asked Zian to meet with him following the event.
This was conveyed by Prabowo whilst giving remarks at the Nuzulul Quran ceremony on Tuesday, 10 March 2026. Prabowo was impressed by the Qur’anic recitation delivered by Zian, who is only 11 years old yet has already achieved international recognition at the Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur’an (MTQ) competition.
“I would also like to express my gratitude to Muhammad Zian Fahrezi, aged 11, the champion of the 1st MTQ in Iran, yes? In 2026,” said Prabowo.
Zian opened the ceremony by reciting sacred Qur’anic verses from Surah Al-Hasyr verses 21 to 24. His recitation created a solemn atmosphere throughout the event and garnered the attention of all present guests.
Prabowo then specially requested that Zian meet with him after the ceremony concluded as a form of appreciation for his achievement.
“I would like you to meet with me after this ceremony, Muhammad Zian Fahrezi,” said Prabowo.