KUCHING: SMK Seri Patiambun, Limbang was crowned champion in the state-level Rukun Negara Sketch Competition.
The school from Limbang walked away with a cash prize of RM2,000 along with a trophy and certificate of participation.
As for first runner-up SMK Matu and second runner-up SMK Sadong Jaya, they also each received a trophy and certificate in addition to a cash prize RM1,500 and RM1,000, respectively.
Puncak Borneo MP Willie Mongin officiated at the State Exhibition and Patriotic Star 2019 programme as well as the state-level Rukun Negara Sketch Competition at Mydin Hypermarket Petra Jaya, here yesterday.
“I am confident that this programme will cultivate the spirit of patriotism as a momentum to celebrate the upcoming Merdeka Day in August and Malaysia Day in September,” he stated.
“The understanding and appreciation of the Rukun Negara among the youths in this era of new technology development should be given attention as continuous efforts to cultivate the spirit of unity need to be increased.
“Youths who have strong moral values are able to shape the country,” he said.
Willie explained that the community has made the new media part of their life culture, thus efforts to apply moral values aligning with the Rukun can be challenging.
“The fifth Rukun Negara principle which is “Kesopanan dan Kesusilaan” (Good Behavior and Morality) should be understood, appreciated and always practised in all aspects be it at home, school, work, in the community and now, in social life.
“Therefore, all parties should play its respective role to ensure that the community practice the Rukun Negara principles,” he urged.
He further acknowledged that efforts made by the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia and Information Department to implement the practise of Rukun Negara among youths and students through programmes such as the competition were very much welcome.
State Information Department director Abang Sardon Abang Hashim added that in addition to the Rukun Negara sketch competition, the programme also includes state exhibitions, a quiz to test their knowledge on the state and country’s history and the Patriotic Star competition.
“The Patriotic Star competition is held to uncover the hidden talents of the youths in singing several patriotic songs, especially in Kuching.
“Apart from that, there is also a colouring contest for children to give them a chance to express their patriotism,” he said.
He then concluded by hoping for more visitors to come and take this opportunity to appreciate the sacrifices and struggles made by the nation’s fighters before.
