Semi-Finalists Announcement
We are delighted to announce that we have received an overwhelming response of 1200 participants representing 250 Tamil schools across Malaysia. We would like to commend all the participants for their remarkable effort, enthusiasm, and performance. It's a matter of great pride for us to witness the impressive English speaking skills of students belonging to the Indian B40 community. We are excited to announce the semi-finalists below who have been selected based on their language proficiency, content, and B40 background checks. We wish all the semi-finalists the very best for the upcoming semi-finals and encourage all other participants to keep up their efforts in mastering the English language for a promising future. All the participants will receive a certificate of participation.Watch the exciting live stream of the grand finals on 28 May 2023 at 07.00 pm!
3 Days to go
Our Mission
English Public Speaking Skills
We aim to open up a world of possibilities in Education, Employment, and Entrepreneurship
Our mission is to provide students from disenfranchised minority groups in Malaysia with equal opportunities for success by empowering them with English public speaking skills. With these skills, we aim to open up a world of possibilities in education, employment, and entrepreneurship, which will promote social mobility and break the cycle of disenfranchisement that has plagued the community for far too long. We hope to provide these students with the tools they need to achieve their goals and unlock their full potential.
Why English?
English is the language of Diplomacy, Business, Science, and Technology.
The global reach of English as the lingua franca of international business and trade creates increased opportunities for employability and entrepreneurship. It is the language of instruction in many universities and academic institutions worldwide, providing access to resources and information. English also opens access to better healthcare, social services, and cultural exchange, all while boosting self-confidence and self-esteem.
Who is this for?
Indian B40 students aged 11 and 12
The first edition of this competition is aimed at Indian B40 students aged 11 and 12, studying in Tamil vernacular schools throughout Malaysia. This age group is targeted as it allows for the development of public speaking skills and boosts confidence while also promoting the importance of English proficiency at an early age.
Basis Bay
"Basis Bay's primary requirement for hiring in Malaysia is how well our candidates conduct themselves in the English language.
Speak any language as well as you wish to but master the English language to enhance your future employability and entrepreneurial opportunities both locally and internationally.
Speaking English well will definitely give the Malaysian B40s a leg up.”
- Dato' Praba Thiagarajah
Executive Chairman, Basis Bay
Challenges of the Indian B40 Group
Indian B40 students aged 11 and 12
The Indian B40 community in Malaysia faces numerous challenges including historical displacement from changes in the plantation sector, low education levels, high suicide rates, and lower rates of house and share ownership. Additionally, youth alienation has led to a rise in juvenile delinquency cases, criminal activities, and gang involvement. The community also experiences a lack of private and corporate employment opportunities, often working in lower-paying jobs and competing with foreign migrant workers
Video Submissions
Fill up the registration form here
Record a 1-minute video of yourself speaking in English on one of the following topics:
- My favourite subject in school and why
- My favourite book or movie and why
- My favourite sport or hobby and why
WhatsApp your video to +60173555738 Deadline: 7 April 2023
Semi-Finals
30 participants will be selected for the semi-finals round
The semi-finals will be held online
The date, time, and other details of the online round will be posted here soon
Finals
10 participants will be selected for the final round
The finals will be held face-to-face in a grand event
The date, time, venue, and other details of the finals will be posted here soon.
Challenge Sponsor
Dato' Praba Thiagarajah
Project Sponsor & Executive Chairman,Basis Bay
Core Team Members
G. S. Murali
MD, Seven Hills Top Founder, INDOGOTV Content Producer & Director
Selvamalar Selvarjau
CEO, Primus Wellness Co-Founder, MySkills Foundation LeadEx Fellow Asia | 2022
Sikha Patnaik
Lead - MarComm & Primary Event Coordinator, Basis Bay
Siva Ramalingam
Independent Event Organizer, Basis Bay
Media Partners
