UMS MTQ Team Crowned World Champion at IQRA 2025

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) has once again achieved international recognition. The UMS delegation for the Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur’an (MTQ) proudly earned the title of 1st Runner-Up at the International Quran Recitation Award (IQRA) 2025, held at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) in Banda Aceh.

The IQRA 2025 event brought together delegations from universities across Indonesia and abroad to compete in the art of Quranic recitation and to promote Qur’anic values through an international debate forum. The accomplishment of UMS students stands as a testament to the university’s growing reputation and excellence on the global stage.

“We are truly grateful and proud of this achievement. It’s an unforgettable experience,” said Avrilo Kynan Leandro, one of the UMS delegates, during an interview on Wednesday (8/10/2025)

In this competition, Avrilo was not alone in representing UMS, he was joined by Rizky Damarjati Wicaksono. The event took place from September 13 to 15, 2025.

Preparations for the international competition were carried out intensively. Avrilo explained that he and his team underwent daily material drilling and weekly debate sessions, supported by their coach and fellow members of the Muhammadiyah English Debating Society (MEDS) student organization.

“Consistent practice became our most important foundation in facing the competition,” said Avrilo.

Avrilo also acknowledged that the competition came with major challenges. One of the main difficulties, he noted, was integrating Qur’anic values into practical and solution-oriented arguments during debates conducted in English.

“Debating itself is already complex, and combining it with the understanding and application of Qur’anic principles made it a truly fascinating challenge,” he remarked.

Furthermore, Avrilo described his participation in IQRA as an invaluable experience, as it allowed him to meet outstanding delegates from various universities and countries.

“Building new connections and friendships across universities was an extraordinary part of the journey,” he concluded.

Another delegate, Rizky Damarjati Wicaksono, also expressed his pride. He said that this achievement motivates him to continue participating in various competitions, including preparing for the 18th National Student MTQ (MTQMN 18).

“Don’t get tired of trying, because success is Allah SWT’s gift. Even if you fail, it’s still a valuable experience, because the best teacher is experience,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining Qur’anic spirit in the modern era. Upholding Qur’anic knowledge and values is crucial, especially now. He believes Muslims must preserve these principles so they do not fade, as they are our identity as Islamic academics, especially at UMS.

With this achievement, the UMS MTQ delegation has shown that Qur’anic values can continue to be developed in international forums, while also elevating the university’s name on the global stage.

Writer: Yusuf Ismail

Editor: Fika Annisa Sholihah

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid