FOLLOW QURANIC TEACHINGS TO OVERCOME SOCIAL ILLS - ABDULLAH

KUALA TERENGGANU (Malaysia), Aug 19 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said a community advocating good values by adhering to Quranic teachings could help overcome various social ills confronting the nation.

The prime minister said the theme of the 50th International Quran Reciters Assembly, "Menjana Ummah Gemilang" (Generating Outstanding Muslims) reflected the objective of the government to achieve success and excellence for the peopleand nation.

"Efforts should be directed in an integrated and continuous manner because Muslims have a clear direction and comprehensive, salient guidelines derivedfrom the Quran.

"As such, let us combine our efforts and pledge to become outstanding Muslims who will bring glory to Muslims in general and Malaysia in particular at the world stage," he said in a souvenir programme in conjunction with theevent.

Abdullah said Muslims must appreciate and practise the teachings of theQuran in their daily lives to receive blessings from the Almighty.

Fourty-nine male and 31 female reciters are taking part in the event.