Jointly reported by:
Loh Ler Yao Sr1ScC
Yong Xuan Sr1ScD
To promote appreciation and understanding of traditional games, the Malay Language Department organised a Congkak competition as part of Malay Language Week on 18 April 2026 at the ground floor of the Multi-purpose Complex. The competition was open to all Junior 2 students, with each class sending two representatives.
Before the competition began, teachers from the Malay Language Department prepared the venue by laying out kain batik and kain pelikat, traditional fabrics commonly associated with the game of congkak. Each hole on the congkak board, known as a “kampung”, was carefully filled with seven marbles with the assistance of members of the Academic Affairs Committee.
When the competition officially commenced, a total of 17 groups participated, with two players competing against each other in each match. The first and second rounds each lasted 15 minutes. The surroundings were filled with the soft clinking of marbles, while the players’ determination was clearly visible on their faces. A game supervisor was assigned to each group to ensure that all participants adhered to the rules fairly.
After two knockout rounds, six groups advanced to the final stage. Following another intense 15-minute round, five students were announced as the top finalists. Chong Zi Jun (Jr2D1) emerged as the champion with 78 marbles. Tham Ee Qin (Jr2Z3) secured first runner-up, followed by Law Ee Zao (Jr2Z4) as second runner-up, Ella Ho Zhi Qing (Jr2D3) as third runner-up, and Ethan Liu Chen Xi (Jr2S3) in fifth place.
The event concluded with a group photo of the finalists and the teachers in charge, serving as a meaningful keepsake. Overall, the competition not only fulfilled its objective of preserving cultural traditions but also fostered unity and encouraged healthy competition among students.
