Folktale Storytelling is a recorded storytelling competition in which participants present a folktale using a Malaysian indigenous language or Malaysian Sign Language.

Objectives

1. Promote appreciation of Malaysian indigenous languages, Malaysian Sign Language, and storytelling traditions.
2. Preserve and celebrate folktales as part of Malaysia’s cultural heritage.
3. Develop expressive storytelling skills, including voice/signing, gesture, and audience engagement.
4. Strengthen intercultural understanding through the sharing of indigenous stories.

Participation

Individual Entry

Eligibility

1. Malaysian Indigenous Languages Category
   • Undergraduate students only
2. Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) Category
   • Undergraduate students only

Languages

• Malaysian Indigenous Languages
• Malaysian Sign Language (Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia, BIM)

1. Choose one Malaysian indigenous language from one of the following categories:
   • Bahasa Orang Asli – Languages traditionally spoken by Orang Asli communities in Peninsular Malaysia. For example: Semai and Temiar.
   • Bahasa Orang Asal – For the purpose of this competition, languages traditionally spoken by indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak. For example: Kadazandusun and Iban.
   • Dialects of the Malay Language – Regional varieties of the Malay language that differ from Standard Malay in pronunciation and vocabulary. For example: Kelantan Malay and Terengganu Malay.
     
     

     *Standard Malay is not eligible under this category, as a separate HELCA competition category is provided for Standard Malay. If you are unsure whether a particular language or dialect is eligible, please contact the HELCA committee for clarification.

2. Team Manager needs to register for the competition via the Google Form link provided above.
3. Select one (1) folktale from a Malaysian indigenous community.
   • The folktale may be traditional, adapted, or retold, but it must reflect the cultural values, beliefs, customs, moral lessons, or worldview of the community from which it originates.
4. Ensure that the storytelling performance is within five (5) minutes.
5. Ensure that the participant is clearly identifiable on camera for the entire duration of the recording.
6. Ensure that the video is clear and must not contain any editing that alters the original voice of the participant.
7. Record the video in landscape format and upload it to YouTube.
8. Name the video in this format: HELCA 2026 Folktale Storytelling Competition - [Language Category, Language Name] (University Name).
   For example: HELCA 2026 Folktale Storytelling Competition - Malaysian Indigenous Languages, Iban (UM).
9. Configure the YouTube video visibility setting as Public or Unlisted to ensure accessibility for evaluation.
10. Team Manager needs to submit the YouTube video link via the provided Google Form. Along with the video link, submit the following:
    1. The script of the story.
    2. English translation of the script.
    3. If relevant, a declaration of AI usage, specifying the intent and extent of its application.
11. If the entry is selected as a winner, participants are required to provide English subtitles to ensure clarity for the international audience during the HELCA 2026 closing ceremony project showcase.

1. Story Content and Structure
   • Clarity, coherence, and completeness of the folktale, including plot development, sequencing of events, and effectiveness of the beginning, middle, and ending.
2. Creativity of Performance
   • Effective use of voice, expression, gesture, and supporting elements such as costumes, props, and background music to enhance the storytelling performance without overshadowing the storyteller.
3. Cultural Relevance and Interpretation
   • Effectiveness in presenting the cultural values, moral lessons, beliefs, traditions, or worldview reflected in the folktale.
4. Time Management
   • Compliance with the prescribed five-minute time limit.