A student from the Fine Arts Education Study Program, Faculty of Language, Arts, and Culture (FBSB), Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY), Nauval Udhya Tammimi, achieved an outstanding accomplishment by winning First Place in the Contemporary Musabaqah Khattil Qur’an (MKQ) category at the International Qur’anic Festival (I-QAF) 2026.

The achievement was earned through his contemporary calligraphy artwork, which conveyed the message of the Qur’an as a source of healing and mercy for believers, inspired by Surah Al-Isra verse 82. Nauval explained that the artwork was created through deep reflection on the meaning of the verse selected as the competition theme. Each visual element was carefully translated into symbols that strengthen the message of the artwork.

Nauval explained that the artwork contained various symbolic elements. The rope extending from above represents the descent of the Qur’an from the heavens, while the book symbolizes the Qur’an itself. Balloons, crystals, and health-related symbols represent the meaning of healing, while water and grapes symbolize mercy that brings life. The woven prayer mat represents faith that continues to be connected in the life of a believer.

All of these elements were combined with a realistic stone-textured background to create a strong visual impression while reinforcing the meaning conveyed through the artwork. Through this approach, Nauval sought to combine artistic beauty with the spiritual values contained in the Qur’anic message.

Behind his success, Nauval admitted that managing time was one of his biggest challenges. Amid his academic responsibilities, freelance work, and his role as a member of the campus mosque management team, he continued to maintain consistent practice and preparation for the competition.

He emphasized that artistic ability cannot be achieved instantly. Therefore, he developed his skills through continuous observation, experimentation, and repeated practice until his concepts and techniques became well established. This method helped him prepare effectively for the competition and complete his work without compromising quality.

Nauval expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the event. For him, competitions are not only about winning awards but also about creating opportunities to learn, exchange experiences, and build connections with student calligraphers from various regions in Indonesia. “Alhamdulillah, I am very grateful to be trusted with first place. I never imagined achieving this accomplishment before. I would like to thank the organizers, judges, parents, family, teachers, friends, and everyone who continuously provided prayers and support,” Nauval said.

This achievement is expected to encourage more outstanding students to continue developing Qur’anic calligraphy as a medium for preaching, education, and the preservation of Islamic art at both national and international levels.