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Kota Kinabalu: Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) continues to nurture children’s interest and talent in literature through the organisation of poetry recitation, storytelling and singing competitions by the Early Childhood Education Programme (PAKK), Faculty of Education and Sports Science (FPPS).

The Children’s Literature Day Programme involved some 30 children aged five to six from around Kota Kinabalu, Kota Belud and Kota Marudu.  

PAKK UMS Programme Head Dr Mohd Zafaren Zakaria, who officiated the programme, said early exposure to literature is able to support children’s academic development while preserving cultural heritage and national identity.

“Through the competitions organised, children are not only nurtured in terms of language and communication skills, but are also trained to be confident in appearing in front of others, to build self-confidence and to appreciate cultural and literary values.

“The participants demonstrated an encouraging level of confidence by wearing creative and attractive costumes throughout the competitions.

“Strong support from parents also contributed to the success of this programme, creating a positive and conducive learning environment,” he said in a statement, Tuesday. 

He added that feedback received from parents was very encouraging, with many expressing pride in their children’s bravery and increased self-confidence as a result of participating in the programme.

Children’s Literature Day Programme Advisor Dr Juppri Bacotang said the programme also provided significant added value to PAKK UMS students involved as facilitators and organisers.

“Student involvement in this programme gives them the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations, particularly through direct interaction with children and the wider community.

“It serves as an important platform for developing leadership, communication, time management and teamwork skills,” he explained.

Programme Director Sharifah Nurhakimah Ilasam expressed her appreciation for the support given by all parties in making the programme a success, especially the students of the PAKK programme.

“We truly appreciate the trust of parents as well as the continuous support from fellow students, lecturers and sponsors who collectively ensured the success of this programme.

“We also value the support from strategic partners such as UMSFLEC, Iztanburg, Page Eight, Rosemary, Aeon Fantasy Kidzoona, Inomax, Kelab Belia Dinamik, the PTA of TABIKA KEMAS PPR Taman Korongkom Jaya B, as well as other parties who were directly or indirectly involved,” she said.

The organisation of the Children’s Literature Day Programme reflects UMS’s ongoing commitment to supporting the holistic development of children, strengthening the lifelong learning agenda and empowering the role of higher education institutions in producing quality, competitive graduates and educators with strong community values.