(Starting Left) MBSA councillor Zon 9 MPP, Ramu Nadarajan, Kota Kemuning assemblyman Preakas Sampunathan, Second right, MBSA councillor Zon 14 MPP, Yogeswari Sampunathan and MBSA councillor Zon 13 MPP, Nathindran Raj Baskaran (right) at the public speaking competition at Dewan Azalea, Shah Alam.
Young voices took centre stage at the Leaders of Tomorrow public speaking competition, where children as young as five captivated the audience with their visions for Malaysia’s future.
Themed “Malaysia, My Country,” the event brought together participants from Kota Kemuning, Selangor, to showcase their public speaking skills and patriotism.
Among them was Kavi Priya Ravikumar, who couldn’t contain her joy after winning first place in Category B (nine to 12 years) group.
Participants of the competition dressed in traditional outfits.
“I’m so happy to win my first competition,” she said excitedly.
“I’ve never liked public speaking and was not planning on joining the competition but I’m glad I tried.
“I also think that sometimes we should just try and do things that are out of our comfort zone.”
The competition, organised by the Kota Kemuning assemblyman’s office in collaboration with Balsans Events and Productions, aimed to instil confidence, leadership skills and a love for the country among Malaysian youth.
“We have seen incredible potential in these young participants who confidently expressed their ideas about Malaysia’s future,” said Kota Kemuning assemblyman Preakas Sampunathan.
“Their ability to communicate and lead will form the foundation of their success as future leaders.”
Besides Kavi, the other winners in their age groups were Geerthika Velmurugan in Category A (five to eight years) and Sidharrthan M. Ruban in Category C (13 to 17 years).
Each participant was judged on his or her oratory skills, creativity and originality.
