Boosting English proficiency

IN keeping with the government’s stand on strengthening the proficiency of English among Malaysians, the Education Ministry is holding a month-long English language essay writing competition for teachers, lecturers and ministry officers.

Titled “Let’s Write! Be Creative with English Competition”, the ministry said the competition is its commitment to raise the standards of teaching and learning of the English language by benchmarking these standards against international standards based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

“The ability to function and communicate effectively using English is vital for our future generation to keep up with the socio-economic developments in the global arena. “In line with the country’s aspirations, Malaysian teachers, officers, lecturers and students must be prepared to face an ever challenging world where the English language is the key to access knowledge.

“The competition provides an opportunity for teachers, officers and lecturers in the ministry to share ideas and experiences through writing,” it said in a statement last Friday.

Such competitions, it said, produce creative writers among teachers, officers and lecturers.

It also highlights their ability in the language.

Held in conjunction with the Teachers Day 2019 celebration, the competition is organised by the English Language Teaching Centre, which falls under the ministry, with the cooperation of Minconsult Sdn Bhd, Oxford & Cambridge Society, English Speaking Union and Sunway University.

The competition will end on June 10.

Participants are required to write essays between 1,000 and 1,200 words on the theme of “Mutual Respect, Love and Happiness Within the Teaching and Learning Environment”.

All teachers, officers and lecturers who are currently working with the ministry are eligible to take part in this competition.

All participants will receive a certificate of participation and winners will receive cash prizes and a certificate of merit.

“The prizes are sponsored by Minconsult Sdn Bhd and Sunway University,” it said.

The prize-giving ceremony will be launched by Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik on July 26 at the ministry in Precinct 5, Putrajaya.