6 days ago
Storytelling competition inspires patriotism among Sarawak students
Kestury (centre) in a photo call with the panel of judges and senior officers from Sarawak Information Department. – Information Department photo
KUCHING (July 25): The 'Pengisahan Kenegaraan @ Kelab Malaysiaku 2025' competition is more than just a storytelling contest – it serves as a key platform to foster patriotism, instil national values and cultivate students' appreciation for Malaysia's independence heroes.
Organised under the Information Department's 'Kelab Malaysiaku' programme, the event focused on dramatic storytelling that incorporated strong elements of patriotism, nationhood, and historical appreciation.
Topics included national policies, Malaysia's development milestones, constitutional values, and the struggles of independence fighters.
All entries were submitted in the form of pre-recorded videos, each not exceeding 15 minutes.
Information Department Sarawak deputy director Sri Kestury Mohammed Zamhari said the competition plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of young Malaysians through creative narration and performance.
'Through storytelling and creative delivery, students are not only taught to honour our national heroes, but also guided to embrace noble values and a spirit of nationhood,' she said during the Sarawak-level finals held virtually yesterday.
She commended the students for their creativity and commitment, adding that this year's theme, 'Malaysia Madani, Rakyat Disantuni', aligns with the government's efforts to promote unity, compassion, and respect among Malaysians.
Emerging as state champion was Kelab Malaysiaku from Sekolah Seni Malaysia Sarawak, who will represent Sarawak at the national finals in September.
The winning team defeated five other schools and took home RM1,000 in cash, a plaque, and a certificate.
Second place went to SMK Tatau, who won RM700, while SMK Paku, Bau placed third with RM500.
Consolation prizes of RM300 each were awarded to SMK Jalan Arang (Kuching), SMK Jalan Oya (Sibu), and SMK St Anthony (Sarikei).
The virtual event was also attended by district Information officers, participants, and teacher coordinators.
Judging the competition were Universiti Malaysia Sarawak's (Unimas) Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts lecturer Mawar Suhaila Abdul Bakar, National Film Development Corporation (Finas) Sarawak branch publishing officer Mohamad Haziq Mirza Othman, and senior officers from Information Department Sarawak. Information Department lead Pengisahan Kenegaraan storytelling contest
