HIQMA Introduces First-Ever Qur’an Sign Language Presentation at UIN Jakarta’s 137th Graduation Ceremony

UIN Jakarta, UIN Online News — The Student Activity Unit (UKM) of the Student Association of Qari and Qariah (HIQMA) at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta showcased its first-ever Qur’an Sign Language presentation during UIN Jakarta’s 137th Graduation Ceremony at Harun Nasution Auditorium on Saturday (August 24, 2025).

This initiative marks HIQMA’s pioneering step toward providing a more inclusive method of Qur’anic learning for the hearing-impaired community.

The debut performance was warmly welcomed by the UIN Jakarta academic community. Faculty members, students, and university leaders praised the Qur’an Sign Language program as a strategic step toward expanding access to the sacred text in an increasingly inclusive academic environment.

UIN Jakarta Rector, Prof. Asep Saepudin Jahar, M.A., Ph.D., expressed his appreciation for HIQMA’s effort, describing it as highly valuable and an integral part of the university’s “curriculum of compassion.”

“This is one of our best services for people with disabilities to help them understand the meaning of the Qur’an. It reflects our curriculum of compassion, as we ensure that our brothers and sisters with special needs are able to participate and engage just like everyone else,” he remarked.

Similarly, the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Prof. Dr. H. Ahmad Tholabi Kharlie, S.Ag., S.H., M.H., M.A., welcomed the initiative and provided encouragement to the HIQMA team.

“I am delighted with this innovation by HIQMA. It is not only about reciting the Qur’an but also presenting its translation through sign language. This is an excellent initiative that must continue to improve so it can set an example and bring greater benefits to the public,” he praised.

The development of the Qur’an Sign Language program was not an overnight achievement; it requires extensive preparation, training, and collaboration with various institutions, starting with HIQMA’s consultation with the LPMQ under the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs.

“It all started with our dialogue with LPMQ at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, where we aligned our vision and mission, particularly in Qur’an Sign Language education. Alhamdulillah, the curriculum, teaching methods, and technical aspects were prepared, and we held a special seminar at UIN Jakarta’s Student Center Mosque to train HIQMA members in this field,” said the head of HIQMA.

Looking ahead, HIQMA plans to expand its Qur’an Sign Language program to cover more surahs, integrate it into study forums, and collaborate with inclusive schools and Islamic boarding schools. Through this initiative, UIN Jakarta reaffirms its commitment to pioneering inclusive Qur’anic education, ensuring that the sacred teachings can be accessed and appreciated by all.

(Fathan Rangga I./Fauziah M./Zaenal M./Muhamad Arifin Ilham)