Zulfikar’s Journey to Dozens of MHQ Titles and Global Recognition

A fifth-semester student in the Al-Quran and Tafsir Studies, Faculty of Islamic Studies (FAI), Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS), Zulfikar is an inspiring figure who has brought pride to his university through his achievements in various Musabaqah Hifdzil Qur’an (MHQ) competitions. Since the beginning of his studies, he has participated in around 40 competitions, consistently earning championship titles at different levels, from university and regional, to national and international stages.

His deep love for the Qur’an did not come by chance. From the age of four, Zulfikar began memorizing the Qur’an under his mother’s guidance. The process continued until he was in the fourth grade of elementary school. After that, he continued his memorization journey independently, without a tutor, showing the discipline and dedication that have been ingrained in him since childhood.

Zulfikar revealed that his initial motivation to memorize the Qur’an came from his parents’ encouragement. At that time, they would often give him a reward each time he successfully memorized a new portion. However, as he grew older, that motivation evolved.

“Now, memorizing the Qur’an is no longer about receiving rewards or gifts, but about how I can continue to preserve my memorization so that it remains intact and accountable,” he said on Tuesday (4/11/2025).

For Zulfikar, memorizing the Qur’an is an activity that brings peace. He experiences a sense of tranquility that nothing else can replace feeling as though all burdens and life’s troubles disappear the moment he recites the words of Allah.

“When I memorize, I feel comfortable, calm, and at peace. My mind feels refreshed, and all my problems seem to fade away,” he shared.

 Zulfikar won 1st place in the National MHQ 10 Juz Competition held by UIN Sunan Kalijaga.  

For him, MHQ competitions are not merely contests but serve as a means to strengthen his memorization. “I always intend to preserve my Qur’an memorization wherever and whenever I am,” he said.

Participating in competitions has become one of the most effective ways for him to maintain and expand his Qur’an memorization, even amid the demands of his studies.

Zulfikar mentioned that the number of competitions he has joined is now beyond count. From his first semester until now, he estimates he has participated in more than 40 competitions. Regardless of the results, whether he wins or not, he said his feelings remain the same.

“I feel indifferent, because what matters most is my initial intention in joining the competition. Winning isn’t the main goal, it’s simply a means to help me continually preserve my Qur’an memorization,” he explained.

Below is a list of Zulfikar’s achievements from semester 1 to semester 5:

• 1st Place, MHQ 10 Juz, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, 2023 (BEM FAI UMS)
• 1st Place, MHQ 5 Juz, Central Java & Yogyakarta, 2024 (IIQ An-Nur Yogyakarta)
• 1st Place, MHQ 5 Juz, National Level, 2024 (Universitas Widyatama Bandung)
• 2nd Place, MHQ 10 Juz, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, 2024 (Bureau of Student Affairs UMS)
• Consolation 1st Place, MHQ 10 Juz, International Level, 2024 (Porseni)
• 3rd Place, MHQ 10 Juz, National Level, 2024 (Universitas Brawijaya Malang)
• 3rd Place, MHQ 10 Juz, Central Java & Yogyakarta, 2024 (IIQ An-Nur Yogyakarta)
• 3rd Place, MHQ 1 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Universitas Brawijaya Malang)
• 1st Place, MHQ 15 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Markaz Ghanim)
• 2nd Place, MHQ 2 Juz, National Level, 2025 (UIN Bandung)
• 2nd Place, MHQ 15 Juz, National Level, 2025 (STAI Al-Anwar)
• 1st Place, MHQ 3 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Uhamka)
• 1st Place, MHQ 3 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Universitas Muhammadiyah Palembang)
• 2nd Place, MHQ 5 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Universitas Diponegoro)
• 2nd Place, MHQ 2 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Universitas Andalas)
• 3rd Place, MHQ 10 Juz, National Level, 2025 (UIN Palopo, South Sulawesi)
• 3rd Place, MHQ 5 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Universitas Sebelas Maret)
• 1st Place, MHQ 10 Juz, National Level, 2025 (UIN Walisongo, Semarang)
• 1st Place, MHQ 10 Juz, National Level, 2025 (UIN Sunan Kalijaga)
• 3rd Place, MHQ 5 Juz, Central Java & Yogyakarta, 2025 (Masjid Syuhada)
• 2nd Place, MHQ 3 Juz, National Level, 2025 (Universitas Lampung)
  

Zulfikar secured 3rd Place in the MHQ 5 Juz National Competition at Universitas Sebelas Maret.

Reflecting on his numerous achievements, Zulfikar emphasized that every competition is a learning opportunity rather than merely a quest for titles. For him, each event represents a tangible form of community support in preserving the Qur’an.

Beyond his accomplishments, Zulfikar also shared a message for fellow students to remain committed to safeguarding their Qur’an memorization, no matter the circumstances

“Your surroundings, friendships, environment, busy schedules, and lifestyle should never be an obstacle to maintaining your memorization. Use whatever methods can motivate you,” he asserted.

He also encouraged students who have not yet had the courage to join competitions to take the leap and seize the opportunity.

“Take part in the competitions available, because I believe that competing is one of the most effective ways to stay motivated in preserving the Qur’an, even amid our hectic routines,” he said.

In closing, Zulfikar expressed his hope that his achievements would not make him arrogant. Instead, he wishes to remain humble and grateful.

“May I always be able to preserve my Qur’an memorization until the end of my life, and continue sharing knowledge while encouraging others to do the same,” he concluded.

Writer: Adi Kurnia

Editor: Fika Annisa Sholihah

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid