By Petronella Langita Felix & Umie Syazwanie Mohd
KUCHING: Two essay writing contests, two infographic contests and a short video contest, hosted by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) in collaboration with Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), are being held from Aug 11 to Sept 15.
The two writing contests are Malay Language Essay Writing Contest (KTMB Train) and Malay Language Essay Writing Contest (KTMB Service).
“The other three digital contests are the Infographic Poster Contest (Commuter), Infographic Poster Contest (Electric Train Service or also known as ETS) and Short Video Contest.
“Each contest has different terms and conditions, themes and prizes,” said a spokesperson.
According to him, the Malay Language Essay Writing Contest themed ‘Memori Menaiki Kereta Api KTMB’ (Memories of Taking the KTMB Train) is open to children aged 10 to 12 years old.
“Prizes for this category include RM500 for the first place, RM300 for the second place, RM200 for the third place, RM100 for the consolation prize, certificates and free tickets for those who qualify,” he explained.
The Malay Essay Writing Contest with the theme ‘Memori Menaiki Perkhidmatan KTMB’ (Memories of Boarding KTMB Services), on the other hand, is open to teenagers aged 13 to 17 years old.
“The prizes offered are RM1000 for first place, RM700 for the second place, RM500 for the third place, RM300 for the consolation prize, certificates and free tickets for the eligible,” he added.
The poster for the Infographic Poster Contest (Commuter). 
The poster for the Infographic Poster Contest (Electric Train Service, ETS).
Meanwhile, the Infographic Poster Contest themed “Commuter and ETS” are open to those aged 18 years and above, offering RM1000 for the first place, RM800 for the second place, RM600 for the third place, RM400 for the consolation prize, certificates and free tickets respectively for the eligible.
“Lastly, the Short Video Contest themed ‘Aku dan Keretapi’ (The Train and I) is open to those aged 18 and above, offering RM3000 for the first place, RM2000 cash for the second place, RM1000 for the third place, RM500 for the consolation prize, free certificates and tickets for those who qualify.
“The contests aim to cultivate love and pride for the national language, strengthen unity in the society and produce future generations who are proud of the national language,” said the spokesperson.
He added that participants must fill the entry forms before participating in the contests. More information about the entry forms can be obtained through DBP and KTMB social media, as well as KTMB’s website at www.ktmb.com.my.
Information about the contests can be obtained from the secretariat at dbksik2021@gmail.com or call 03-2267 1200.
For further information, the public may contact Nuruldiyana Mohd Saharudin (KTMB) at 017-699 8432 or via email at nuruldiyana@ktmb.com.my; or Rohana Abdul Rahman (DBP) at 017-375 6630 or via email at ana_ar@dbp.gov.my.
