The acclaimed “Saraswathy English Challenge,” a speaking competition held by BASIS BAY, has returned to bloom with the admirable goal of enhancing the English language proficiency of B40 students enrolled in Tamil-language schools.
The distinguished executive chairman of the organization, Dato’ Praba Thiagarajah, has cordially invited fifth- and sixth-year children from over 530 Tamil schools throughout Malaysia to participate in this stimulating competition.
Thiagarajah highlighted how widespread English is in the fields of politics, business, science, technology, and employment. He stated that knowing English is essential for advancing in society since it is the language of opportunity and recruiting.
“While I advocate for linguistic diversity, proficiency in English is indispensable. It’s the lingua franca of tomorrow, pivotal in the recruitment landscape, not just in Malaysia but globally,” asserted Thiagarajah.
The “Saraswathy English Challenge,” which is currently in its second version, highlights BASIS BAY’s dedication to social responsibility. Thiagarajah expects the same overwhelming support as in the past year, demonstrating a group effort toward language empowerment.
The guidelines have been set by the organizing committee, under the direction of G.S. Murali, between February 7 and March 7. Each participant is required to give a one-minute speech on a predefined topic, record it, and submit it over WhatsApp (017-3555738). To participate, you must also register on their official website.
This year’s competition offers large rewards for success and is specifically designed for native kids in Tamil-speaking institutions. A cash award of 20,000 ringgit will be given to the winner in first place, 10,000 ringgit to the runner-up, and 5,000 ringgit to the third-place participant.
Winners reflected on their victories from the previous year and shared life-changing moments. Prithika Thiagu, Damayanthi Ganapathy, and Yashini Selvaraj praised the competition for helping them hone their abilities and plan their careers.
Basis Bay’s Commitment:
Basis Bay is persistent in its dedication to developing English oratory abilities in underprivileged and B40 Indian students in Malaysia. Their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) agenda, which promotes equal opportunity for all, is in line with this.
The competition is aimed at B40 students aged 11 and 12, with an emphasis on the importance of these formative years for skill development. English language competency is emphasized by Dato’ Praba Thiagarajah as being crucial for future employment and business endeavors.
As a tribute to his late mother Saraswathy, who supported causes related to these, Dato’ Praba’s “Saraswathy English Challenge” is a manifestation of his dedication to improving underprivileged areas.
Competition Format:
The competition is divided into several stages, starting with video submissions and concluding with an enormous live finale. A strict judgment enables a fair and honest selection procedure by assessing grammar, content, and presentation.
The goal of the public speaking training is to prepare the semi-finalists for the online round. Background checks confirm B40 eligibility, guaranteeing inequality and openness.
Ten finalists contest for the desired title in the grand finale. Participants go through extensive training to present their best selves, and they are judged on their substance, speaking abilities, and analytical skills.
Incentives:
This competition is significant because winners and schools stand to receive substantial financial prizes. The RM20,000 major prize serves as additional proof of the importance of educational empowerment and linguistic excellence.
Essentially, the “Saraswathy English Challenge” is more than just a competition; it’s an example of language empowerment that helps create a future in which every child may succeed academically and socially.
Speaking one speech at a time, BASIS BAY is carrying on Saraswathy’s legacy by launching positive change.
