Muhammad Aniq Faris Rayyan bin Muhamad Eiruzan of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic School, Rimba, emerged as the top winner in Category A of the Essay Writing Competition for Naindung-MekarJuara Pelajar magazine DBP 2024 for his essay “Berkhemah di Kampung Merangking, Kuala Belait.”
In Category B, Muhammad Hakeem Riyaadhuddin bin Roslan, also from Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic School, Rimba, secured first place with his essay “Kesihatan Mental di Kalangan Remaja.”
Javien Chong Xian Wen of St Andrew’s School triumphed in Category C with “Kebaikan dan Kecerdasan Buatan,” while Dayang Nuriman Ainani Zahra binti Masemran took the top prize in Category D for her essay “Kebaikan Melancong Dalam Negara,” representing Beribi Telanai Primary School.
The awards ceremony, held at Balai Sarmayuda, Language and Literature Bureau (DBP), Berakas, on Saturday was officiated by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Culture) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports Dr Siti Norkhalbi binti Haji Wahsalfelah. Acting Director of DBP Dayang Hajah Haireni binti Haji Awang Damit, was also in attendance.
In her welcoming remarks, Dayang Rosmuliati binti Haji Yahya, Acting Head of the Literature and Magazine Division and Secretary of the competition, highlighted the competition’s aim to encourage creative and non-creative writing among students. She underscored its role in fostering a reading culture, enhancing language proficiency, and inspiring the younger generation to write effectively.
The competition, organised by the Literature and Magazine Division of DBP, received 345 submissions from 298 participants across four categories. Each winner received cash prizes, plaques, certificates, DBP-published magazines, and sponsored gifts.
The event also honoured the Best Participating Schools, with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic School, Rimba, and St Andrew’s School taking the top accolades. Lubok Pulau Primary School, Tutong, and Chung Ching Secondary School, Seria, were recognised for achieving the highest magazine sales in 2024.
Adding a cultural touch to the event, students from Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic School, Rimba, presented a stage performance titled “Astaghfirullah.” – Fadley Faisal
