Delima Sakti: A New Drama Ensemble at SK Gual To’Deh

LUBOK JONG - The establishment of the drama group Delima Sakti marks a historic milestone for SK Gual To’Deh. It is the first time that the school has formed a dedicated theatre group, adding a new dimension to the school’s cultural and artistic activities. Before this, the school was well-known for its dance troupe Puteri Tanjung, which celebrated traditional performing arts through movement and music. Inspired by the success of the dance group and motivated by the opportunity to participate in the HIPMaX: Malaysian Folklore StoryFest Competition 2025 organised by ELTC under the Ministry of Education Malaysia, I decided to create this drama ensemble.

These are the actors of Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup. They are Pekan, Mak Tanjung, Melur, Batu Belah, the Narrator, and the Technical Assistant.

An introduction session by Sir Mazeri about the title of the story and the introduction of each role.

The objectives of establishing Delima Sakti are both educational and cultural. Firstly, the group provides students with a platform to explore drama as an art form, encouraging creativity, imagination, and self-expression. Theatre is a unique medium that allows learners to embody characters, understand emotions, and communicate effectively. Through rehearsals and stage practice, students develop essential soft skills such as teamwork, discipline, time management, and public speaking. Secondly, the drama group aims to enhance students’ English proficiency and confidence in using the language. Since the HIPMaX competition involves storytelling and performance in English, students are challenged to practice pronunciation, fluency, and expressive delivery in a meaningful context.

Beyond language learning, the group also holds cultural significance. By performing Batu Belah Batu Bertangkup, one of the most well-known Malay folktales, the students are not only participating in a competition but also taking part in the preservation and promotion of local heritage. Folklore stories carry timeless values of love, respect, sacrifice, and responsibility. Presenting these tales on stage allows the younger generation to reconnect with the wisdom of the past while sharing it with a modern audience. This effort contributes to the broader goal of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, ensuring that traditional narratives are not forgotten but instead appreciated and celebrated.

For the school, Delima Sakti brings pride and recognition. It demonstrates that SK Gual To’Deh is not only committed to academic excellence but also to holistic education that values arts and culture. The creation of this group reflects the school’s vision to provide diverse opportunities for students to discover their talents. Moreover, it strengthens the school’s participation at district, state, and national levels, giving students exposure to competitive platforms where they can represent their institution with confidence.

For the students themselves, the experience is transformative. It builds their self-esteem, enhances cultural appreciation, and encourages them to become ambassadors of traditional stories. They learn that the stage is not only a place to perform but also a place to share values and preserve identity.

In conclusion, the formation of Delima Sakti is a significant step for SK Gual To’Deh. It unites education, culture, and creativity under one initiative, giving students the chance to shine while promoting Malay folklore. This effort symbolises the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who respect heritage while embracing modern challenges.

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