KUALA LUMPUR, Fri. - Muslims are encouraged to contribute towards the publication of 30,000 Qurans to be placed in hotel rooms for guests during the 16th Commonwealth Games here in September. 

Saba Islamic Media Sdn Bhd managing director Sabariah Abdullah said the English-translated Quran could provide a better understanding of Islam among foreigners and non-Muslims. 

"The first phase of our project covers those locations most relevant to the event, to reach out to participants, sports fans, observers and tourists. 

"The second phase will cover hotels in major towns and popular resorts in other States including Sabah and Sarawak." 

Sabariah said as Islam was the nation's official religion, foreigners could gain a better understanding of the religion. 

"By placing a Quran in each hotel room, it will provide an opportunity to non-Muslims to understand Islamic teachings from an authorised source. 

"Our target date is two weeks before the Games begin," she said when announcing the company's initiative which is supported by Pusat Islam, Darul Fitrah Association, Abim-Islamic Outreach and Islamic Propagation Centre at Balai Berita today. 

Sabariah said that it would be good to add the Quran to other religious books in hotel rooms as sources of knowledge. 

Sabariah said 106 hotels, including 44 within the Klang Valley, have agreed to place the Quran in their guest rooms. 

Estimated cost for printing 30,000 copies is RM490,000. 

"We have already printed 8,000 copies and are now distributing them to major hotels here.However, we are facing financial difficulties and are appealing to Muslim corporations and individuals to assist us in printing the remaining 22,000 copies," she said. 

Those wishing to contribute can send their cheques, money orders or postal orders to "Hotel Quran Project '98" account no: BIMB 10070198361 or visit the company's premises at 158, Jalan Raja Abdullah in Kampung Baru. 

The public can contact Sabariah at 016-3369287 or project consultant Raja Petra Raja Kamaruddin at 017-8823306. 

For more details on the project, contributors can also  
e-mail to absaba@tm.net.my or  
homepage: www.saba-islamic-media.com.my/sim.