KUALA TERENGGANU - From 9 to 11 September 2025, I was given the golden opportunity to attend The Malaysian Folklore Storyfest 2025 at the Grand Puteri, Kuala Terengganu. The event was organized under the HIPMax programme by the ELTC, Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM), focusing on enhancing English language learning through creative and cultural approaches. What made the experience even more special was the participation of officers from SISC+, along with selected English teachers representing every district in Kelantan. The workshop also brought together passionate educators from Terengganu and Pahang, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
After the final workshop session, all participants gathered for a memorable photo session. Smiles, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment filled the room as we posed together, capturing not just pictures but also the spirit of unity and collaboration. The session marked a meaningful conclusion, reminding us that the knowledge gained will continue to inspire teaching and learning in our schools.
This was the first time I joined such a course, and I must admit, it was truly eye-opening. The main highlight was learning the art of stage performance, where we were guided step by step on how to present folklore stories in an engaging, dramatic, yet educational way. Acting, which I once thought was only about memorizing lines, turned out to be much more profound. We were trained to use voice projection, body language, facial expression, and movement to bring stories to life. I realized that storytelling, when performed theatrically, is not just entertainment—it is a powerful medium of teaching and learning.Throughout the three days, I learned the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone. Standing on stage, speaking confidently, and expressing emotions are not skills that come naturally to every teacher. Yet, through the supportive guidance of the facilitators and the enthusiastic participation of my peers, I discovered that acting is closely linked to effective teaching. Just as an actor captures the attention of the audience, a teacher must captivate students in the classroom. This parallel reminded me that teaching is, in many ways, a performance—one that requires preparation, creativity, and passion.
Equally enriching was the chance to interact with fellow participants. Each teacher came with unique perspectives and experiences, which broadened my understanding of how folklore and drama can be adapted to different school contexts. The discussions were inspiring, and I felt a strong sense of unity in our mission: to bring English alive for our students through the magic of stories.
As the workshop concluded, I reflected on its educational significance. Folklore represents cultural wisdom, while drama represents expression. Combining the two within the HIPMax framework provides students with an enjoyable, meaningful, and memorable learning experience. More importantly, the skills we gained as teachers—confidence, creativity, and collaborative spirit—are tools that will empower us long after the Storyfest.
I returned from Kuala Terengganu with renewed enthusiasm. I am now eager to bring these techniques into my school, to guide my students in becoming storytellers themselves. By doing so, I hope not only to improve their English proficiency but also to nurture their appreciation for our rich cultural heritage. Truly, The Malaysian Folklore Storyfest 2025 was more than a workshop—it was a journey of growth, creativity, and discovery.
The short video
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