Johor bahru: Semarak Subuh, an initiative by the Johor government, has not only succeeded in enlivening mosques and surau across the state, but has also grown into a platform for knowledge-sharing, character development and strengthening ties between local communities and their leaders. Bandar Putera Indah's Surau Al-Muhajirin chairman Azhaari Sarun said the programme has created greater opportunities for a wide range of activities that can attract community participation, particularly among the youth.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, apart from religious-based activities such as lectures and talks, Semarak Subuh also serves as a suitable platform for the exchange of ideas, community development and the implementation of community-based initiatives that benefit local residents. 'Many people still view mosques and surau solely as places of worship. In reality, they can also function as centres for social development and as gathering places where communities can acquire knowledge and exchange views. 'Through Semarak Subuh, various programmes can be organised, including activities that help instil self-discipline, foster character development and engage young people in ways that suit the needs of the local community,' he told Bernama recently.

Introduced under the leadership of Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Semarak Subuh is among the state's initiatives that brings together government leaders, district administrators and local communities through congregational dawn prayers at mosques and surau across Johor. Meanwhile, a Form Six student of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tunku Putra, Muhammad Syafiq Abdullah, said Semarak Subuh also serves as a bridge that strengthens ties between the community and grassroots leaders. He said the programme provides an opportunity for local residents to interact more closely with community leaders in a relaxed and informal setting.

'Some residents may rarely have the opportunity to meet leaders in their respective areas. Through this programme, we are able to engage directly with mosque and surau management committees, village heads, penghulu and elected representatives. 'The relaxed atmosphere after dawn prayers allows us to exchange views, raise concerns and put forward suggestions directly. This indirectly encourages more people to attend mosques and surau,' he said. Muhammad Syafiq added that the programme could also be diversified through beneficial activities such as spiritual, health, educational and self-development programmes suitable for people of all ages.

Meanwhile, incumbent Parit Yaani assemblyman Datuk Mohamad Najib Samuri said Semarak Subuh has emerged as one of the Johor government's initiatives that has received encouraging support from various segments of society. He said the increase in congregational attendance since the programme was introduced reflects its effectiveness in restoring the role of mosques and surau as centres of learning, Islamic outreach and community unity.

'This programme not only encourages greater participation among congregants, but also revitalises the role of mosques and surau as places for acquiring knowledge, exchanging views and strengthening bonds within the community. 'It also reflects the state government's continuous efforts to strengthen the propagation of Islamic values and foster a harmonious and united society,' he said. The Semarak Subuh programme, now in its third year of implementation, will be expanded under the Johor Budget 2026, with activities held three times a week instead of two.

Under the First Thrust of the Johor Budget 2026, namely Government Governance, the state government has allocated RM2.92 million to ensure the continuity and effective implementation of the programme throughout the year.