BREAKING LANGUAGE BARRIERS: CENTRE FOR MODERN LANGUAGES UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA PAHANG AL SULTAN ABDULLAH EXCELS AT HE ELCA 2023

7 December 2023, Tanjung Malim - The Centre for Modern Languages (CML) at Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) has distinguished itself by organising the participation of thirty-two students in various online competitions at the Higher Education English Language Carnival (HE ELCA) 2023.

The carnival is an annual event aimed at providing higher education students the opportunities to use English outside the classrooms and motivate them to enhance their English competency.

Each year, it is co-organized by the Malaysian Higher Education Department and a public university as a host. This year, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) has the honour of hosting ELCA 2023 with the slogan ‘We Learn Together’.

The event, conducted virtually as well as physically on the 7th of December 2023, served as a platform for language enthusiasts - language instructors and students from various higher institutions to showcase their proficiency and creativity in English language-related activities.

UMPSA Participation in HE ELCA 2023 Online Competitions:

1. TikTok Tutorial Video Challenge:
The Centre for Modern Languages proudly sent five teams comprising innovative students to participate in the TikTok Tutorial Video Challenge. These teams, under the expert guidance of CML language teachers, produced entries characterised by a distinctive fusion of educational content and engaging presentation. Their exceptional efforts garnered recognition and acclaim, securing a distinguished position in the competition. Notably, one of the entries, submitted by Muhammad Ezam bin Fauzi, under the guidance of Ms. Nurkarimah Yusof, clinched first place, earning him a trophy, a certificate of participation, and a hamper. Our heartiest congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

2. Public Service Announcement Video (PSA):
In another noteworthy category, the CML participated in the Public Service Announcement (PSA) Video competition. Three groups submitted their videos, showcasing the participants’ adept crafting of compelling and informative PSAs. These entries went beyond mere visual appeal, engaging with relevant societal issues through a nuanced blend of linguistic expertise and visual creativity. The participants demonstrated a profound understanding of the power of communication, employing their skills to address pressing concerns with an eloquent articulation that resonates on both linguistic and visual levels.

3. Public Speaking:
The representatives in the Public Speaking category, comprising three entries, demonstrated remarkable eloquence and confidence. Their meticulously crafted speeches, covering a diverse range of topics, left a lasting impression on the judging panel. This showcase underscored the dedicated commitment of the Centre for Modern Languages (CML) to elevating students' effective communication skills. Through these compelling presentations, the participants not only exhibited mastery in public speaking but also exemplified CML's unwavering emphasis on fostering articulate and confident communicators among its students.

4. Choral Speaking
A distinguished Choral Speaking Team, consisting of 13 Bachelor of Technology (BTech) students, showcased an exceptional display of synchronized performance and collaborative spirit. Under the guidance of their trainer, Ms. Azimah Ahmad Zaki, the team's captivating presentation resonated strongly with the virtual audience, securing a commendable 3rd place in the competition. This achievement not only brings home a trophy, certificate, and hamper but also underscores the commitment to excellence and artistic expression within the CML community. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

5. Booth Activities at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI):
Beyond the virtual arena, the Centre for Modern Languages (CML) extended its engagement by actively participating in the booth activities at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris. Under the thematic umbrella of 'The English Tea Party,' a team comprising six students, accompanied by two dedicated instructors, Ms. Arulselvi Uthayakumaran and Ms. Nur Anisnabila Dianah, orchestrated a captivating showcase. The booth not only exemplified the center's unwavering commitment to language education but also served as an interactive platform for visitors to immerse themselves in a myriad of language-related activities, games, and informational sessions. This initiative not only underscores CML's dedication to holistic language learning but also extends appreciation to all involved in making this outreach effort a success. Kudos to all involved!

Conclusion:
The Language Support Committee on behalf of the CML, UMPSA would like to express our appreciation for the trainers and students’ enthusiasm and efforts for the diverse achievements in HE ELCA 2023.

The success in multiple categories highlighted the centre's holistic approach to language education, incorporating not only traditional language skills but also innovative and contemporary forms of expression.

In an expression of gratitude, an appreciation ceremony was convened at CML Pekan, bringing together the participants and their esteemed trainers. The enchanting ambiance of 'The English Tea Party' was artfully recreated during this gathering.

Dr. Umi Kalsom Masrom, the Head of Division for Department of English Language and representative of the CML Dean, presided over the ceremony, presenting prizes and tokens of appreciation to all contributors. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this event a success.

Special recognition goes to the dedicated trainers, including Ms. Amy Zulaikha Mohd Ali, Ms. Arulselvi Uthayakumaran, Ms. Azimah Ahmad Zaki, Ms. Hamizah Zahari, Ms. Nabila Abdul Malek, Ms. Noraisah Nurul Fatwa Mohd Razali, Ms. Nur Anisnabila Dianah, Ms. Nurkarimah Yusof, Ms. Nurul Nadia binti Muhammad, Ms. Rosnani Ismail, Ms. Siti Norzaimalina Abd Majid, and Ms. Wan Noor Farah Wan Shamsuddin.

Thank you all for your unwavering commitment and we hope to see you again at HE ELCA 2024!

Prepared by: Dr. Ezihaslinda Ngah, Amy Zulaikha Mohd Ali, and Rosnani Ismail.