Lam’aan wins the 14th Bandidhoo Quran Competition supported by Sun Siyam Cares. (Photo/Sun Siyam Iruveli Resorts)
The 14th Dh. Bandidhoo Council Quran Competition recently celebrated the triumph of Mohamed Lam'aan, who took first place in the annual recitation contest. This event, which holds deep cultural significance for the residents of Bandidhoo, serves as a vital platform for encouraging the youth to master the art of Quranic recitation. For the eleventh consecutive year, the initiative has been bolstered by the dedicated support of Sun Siyam Cares, reflecting a sustained commitment to fostering educational and religious development within the island community. The ceremony highlighted the talent of the participants and reinforced the values of dedication and community support that define the island's long-standing traditions.
Mohamed Lam’aan has won the 14th Dh. Bandidhoo Council Quran Competition, an annual event held to encourage Quran recitation and revive the island’s long‑standing tradition of reading the Holy Quran.
According to Bandidhoo Island Council, this year’s competition was held with the generous support of Meedhoo MP and President of Maldives Development Alliance (MDA), Ahmed Siyam Mohamed. The initiative was sponsored for the 11th consecutive year by Sun Siyam Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of Sun Siyam Resorts.
Speaking at the ceremony, Bandidhoo Council President Mohamed Moosa expressed heartfelt gratitude to Siyam for his continued support, noting that the competition has become a source of pride for the island thanks to his commitment.
Lam’aan received MVR 20,000 as the first‑place winner. Amr bin Usaid secured second place, while Aishath Ilfa Athif Moosa came third. Prizes for the top three winners were presented by Sun Siyam Cares Director General Dr. Ashraf Abdul Raheem, who attended the event as Siyam’s representative.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ashraf said Siyam remains dedicated to strengthening Quran education in Bandidhoo and will continue supporting efforts to nurture a community skilled in beautiful, Tajweed‑based recitation. He also highlighted the deep historical connection Maldivians have with reading and learning the Quran, noting that the nation has long upheld a culture of mutual respect and support.
Sun Siyam Iruveli Resort Manager Mohamed Najjah and Human Resources Manager Shimhad Ali were also present at the ceremony.