International entries now accepted for children's book writing competition
The participation of international entrants is also expected to support the country’s cultural diplomacy efforts, as well as promote the national language, literature and knowledge through the works produced.
BANGI - The 2026 International Children’s and Young Adult Book Writing Competition has, for the first time, opened entries to international participants to broaden efforts in enriching Malay literary heritage globally.
The competition chairman Senator Datuk Seri Prof Emeritus Dr Awang Sariyan said the move aims to recognise growing interest among foreigners in the Malay language, in line with its expanding study in countries including China, Japan, Germany and Russia.
"To my knowledge, this is the first time it has been opened to international participants, as it is usually organised for Malaysians. We are now in an era of globalisation and should recognise international audiences who take an interest in the Malay language,” he said at a press conference on the competition on Wednesday.
He said the participation of international entrants is also expected to support the country’s cultural diplomacy efforts, as well as promote the national language, literature and knowledge through the works produced.
"We hope participants from abroad will become grassroots ambassadors who help raise the profile of our language, literature and knowledge, as well as contribute to efforts to promote the heritage traditions of various countries,” he said.
According to Awang Sariyan, the main objectives of the competition include enriching the country’s body of knowledge, producing more credible writers, and providing high-quality reading materials for young people.
"In the history of human civilisation, knowledge and literature have been essential for a civilisation to endure, develop and progress. That is why we need to nurture writers among children and young people so they can produce works for their peers,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Magazines Division chief editor Dr Rosmani Omar described the competition as a timely initiative to increase the volume of publications in the country’s book industry.
"This is a positive initiative that should be further strengthened to empower the Malay language, not only at the national level but also internationally,” she said.
The competition, jointly organised by Sanggar Ilmu Sdn Bhd and Penerbit Pelangi Sdn Bhd in collaboration with DBP, is open to participants aged 12 and above and features three categories: creative writing, creative informative writing and adaptation works.
In addition to cash prizes of up to RM2,000 per category and certificates, winning or promising entries may also be considered for publication.
The competition closes on July 31, with winners expected to be announced on Aug 31 in conjunction with National Day. For more information, members of the public can contact the organisers via email at sanggarilmu.sdbhd@gmail.com or by calling 012-3980133. - BERNAMA
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
