Karnival Lingua Franca 2024: A Celebration of Malay Language with Special Recognition to OKU Participants

Kuantan, 19th October 2024 – The Karnival Lingua Franca 2024 concluded with resounding success tonight at the Main Auditorium of the Kulliyyah of Dentistry, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Kuantan Campus. Organized in collaboration with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Wilayah Tengah, the event brought together 144 participants across multiple categories, emphasizing the promotion of language, arts, and inclusivity, with special recognition for OKU (Orang Kurang Upaya) participants.

A significant highlight of the event was the Poster Drawing Competition for OKU. The posters reflected the creativity and artistic skills of the OKU participants, showcasing their unique perspectives through visual art. This competition stood as a testament to the carnival’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities for all participants to express their talents.

In addition to the OKU category, the carnival also hosted a variety of engaging programs, including:

1. Book Review Competition (Open Category, Ages 13-18) – Teenagers participated by presenting thoughtful reviews of books, encouraging critical reading and communication skills.
2. Storytelling Competition (Open Category, Ages 6-12) – Young children captivated the audience with their engaging storytelling performances, displaying creativity and confidence.
3. Poetry Recitation Competition (IPTA/IPTS Students Category) – University students took part in this competition, delivering emotionally charged poetry recitations that highlighted their passion for literature and performance.
4. Workshop on Public Speaking – The event also featured a workshop aimed at enhancing public speaking skills, where participants from various backgrounds learned effective techniques to improve their oratory abilities. This workshop was designed to help individuals build confidence and communicate more effectively in public settings.

Karnival Lingua Franca 2024 not only celebrated language and the arts but also fostered an inclusive environment where participants from all walks of life, including the OKU community, could actively engage and showcase their talents. The involvement of OKU participants, especially in the poster drawing competition, added depth to the event and highlighted the importance of accessibility and equal recognition.

The collaboration between IIUM and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Wilayah Tengah played a crucial role in the success of the carnival, underscoring the shared commitment to promoting language, culture, and inclusivity in a diverse and dynamic community.