Kaaviyasree Murugan of SJKT Sungai Renggam, Selangor, has emerged champion of the TAMIL2026 National Tamil Public Speaking Competition, after competing against hundreds of young Tamil speakers from across the country.
The national-level competition attracted more than 500 Standard Six students and was organized by Malaysia Innovation Invention Creativity Association (MMICA), with support from the Department of Indian Studies, Universiti Malaya. The Semi-Finals and Grand Finals were held Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur.
From over 500 participants nationwide, 100 students advanced to the Semi-Finals. The competition became even tougher as only the Top 10 students earned their places in the Grand Finals. Kaaviyasree delivered an impressive performance to take the top spot and receive a RM2,000 cash prize.
Jaya Johnathan Mahesh from SJKT Ladang Batak Rabit, Perak, finished second and receive RM1,500, while Mathenraj Ramesh from SJKT Menglembu, Perak, secured third place with RM1,000 cash prize.
TAMIL2026 was organized exclusively for Standard Six students with the aim of developing their Tamil public speaking skills, confidence, critical thinking, creativity, and stage presence.
During the Semi-Finals, student had to deliver both a prepared speech and a picture-based impromptu speech. This tested their ability to present prepared ideas while also thinking quickly and expressing themselves confidently in Tamil.
The Top 10 finalist faced another round of prepared and impromptu speaking during the Grand Finals before the three winners were selected.
Beyond recognizing the best speakers, TAMIL2026 aims to encourage a new generation of young Malaysians who can think, communicate, and confidently express their ideas in Tamil.
With more than 500 students participating nationwide, the competition also showed the continued interest among young Malaysians in strengthening their Tamil language and public speaking abilities. MIICA expressed it’s appreciation to the Department of Indian studies, Universiti Malaya, for it’s support and cooperation in making the national-level competition possible.
MIICA expressed its appreciation to the Department of Indian Studies, Universiti Malaya, for its support and cooperation in making the national-level competition possible.
