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UMT continues Quran manuscript conservation effort

UMT continues Quran manuscript conservation effort

Wednesday, 27/07/2022

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As reflected in its slogan “Ocean of Discoveries for Global Sustainability,” Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) is a university that mainly focuses on research in marine science. But that does not stop it from being involved in efforts that aim to conserve cultural heritage for future generations.

UMT and Terengganu State Museum (LMNT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to synergize their effort in conserving gold-illuminated Terengganu Quran manuscripts.

The manuscripts created between 100 and 200 years ago are said to be the most beautiful in Southeast Asia, owing to their luxurious decorations and fine craftsmanship.

Eleven sultanates in Southeast Asia produced Quran manuscripts, which were used in Quranic studies and Sultans’ coronations, according to related research. These states included Terengganu, Sumatera, Sumbawa, and Acheh.  

Terengganu sultanate had produced Quran manuscripts between 1800 and 1900, a sign that it highly valued the holy books. Based on record, there are 27 Terengganu Quran manuscripts. Eight are kept at Terengganu State Museum, seven at museums across the country, and eight in neighbouring countries including Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. The other four manuscripts are owned by individuals.

Because of the conditions of the manuscripts that have aged with time, the public and researchers are not allowed to come in close contact with the manuscripts to prevent them from further wear.

Thus, for the past four years, UMT through its Sultan Mahmud Islamic Centre (PISM) has been collaborating with LMNT on the conservation of Terengganu Quran manuscripts.

From this collaboration, UMT has successfully digitalized six manuscripts in LMNT’s possession using augmented reality technology. The digital manuscripts are placed at UMT’s Cultural Heritage Digital Gallery.

The public may visit the gallery that was set up in December 2020 to see closely each page of the digital Quran manuscript. It is like seeing the actual one.

In addition, UMT has also highlighted four Quran manuscripts to be gazetted as Tangible National Heritage and the effort has been successful.

Presently, UMT, LMNT, and National Heritage Department are attempting to include the priceless heritage into Memory of the World-UNESCO Register for global appreciation.  

UMT believes the partnership with LMNT will be further strengthened with the signing of the MOU. The university hopes the Quran manuscript conservation effort will continue well into the future and the digital gallery will be able to collect and digitalize all Terengganu Quran manuscripts that are now all over Southeast Asia.

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Corporate Communications Office
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu