LAWAS: The involvement of young people in religious activities must continue to be strengthened to ensure the sustainability of efforts to enliven mosques, surau and religious programmes in the future.

In this regard, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the younger generation must not only possess knowledge and skills, but also have strong character, good moral conduct and a firm religious foundation.

"The involvement of the younger generation is crucial as they are the ones who will carry on the efforts to enliven mosques, surau and religious programmes in the future," he said.

He was speaking at the Zikir Marhaban and Nasyid Competition in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul SAW Celebration at Lawas District Level 1448H/2026M, held at the Lawas Indoor Stadium on Sunday.

Datuk Amar Awang Tengah said the organising of marhaban and nasyid-based programmes not only enlivens the Maulidur Rasul celebration, but also serves as a medium to promote the spirit of Islam through the beauty of vocal art and performances rooted in religious values.

He added that the recitation of zikir marhaban helps nurture the practice of sending blessings upon and praising Prophet Muhammad SAW, while also bringing the community, particularly the younger generation, closer to his life history and noble character.

Nasyid, he said, is a creative and accessible medium of da'wah in conveying messages of love, brotherhood, faith and noble values in an appealing and easily understood manner.

"Competitions like this also provide a positive platform for participants to discover and develop their talents, enhance creativity and build team spirit," he said.

The programme, held in collaboration with IQLAS, PPWS Lawas District and LAKHIL, featured the participation of eight groups in the Zikir Marhaban Competition, while four groups took part in the Nasyid Competition.

Also present were the wife of the Sarawak Deputy Premier, Dato Dayang Morliah Awang Daud, Regional Director of the Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA), Datu Ubaidillah Abdul Latip, Limbang Division Resident, Unus Tambi, Lawas District Officer, Ladin Atok, and Political Secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Awangku Jinal Abedin Dato Pengiran Jawa. -UKASnews