2.1.1.      To support the nation’s efforts to encourage the use of the English language amongst students.

2.1.2.     To encourage students to appreciate drama as it promotes integration and inculcates moral values.

2.1.3.     To provide the opportunity for students and teachers to show their talents and creativity in the art of dramatization; the usage of English which incorporates script.

2.1.4.     Promote the use of role-play and dramatization as a teaching method.

2.2.1.     This competition is open to all senior secondary school pupils (Grade 10-12)

2.2.2.     from government, aided and private schools under the purview of the Ministry of Education.

2.2.3.     Each team comprises a maximum of 15 participants (including the technical crew: stage manager, technical coordinator, set and prop assistant, and prompter) and two teachers in charge.

2.2.4.      It is encouraged that the majority of the team members act and speak. This will work in favour of the team.

2.2.5.     Performance should be confined to the stage only.

2.2.6.     All team members must be from the same school.

2.2.7.     The duration of the performance is limited to 20 minutes.

2.2.8.     The selection of themes is open but should not touch on sensitive issues, for instance, race, religion, stereotyping, politics etc.

2.2.9.     Participating teams are encouraged to produce their own scripts. Scripts or translated scripts of established plays must be adapted and cited.

2.2.10. Drama scripts must include synopses and cast lists and be typed using Font 12 Times New Roman on A4 paper. Scripts should be sent to the organising Committee (neclataz@gmail.com for National Language and Literacy Fair) two weeks before the competition.

2.3.1.      Creativity of Drama             35 %

2.3.2.     Language                             30 %

2.3.3.     Overall Coordination & Performance 25 %

2.3.4.     Positive Values / Message(s) 10 %

2.3.5.     Total                                     100%

2.4.          Teams which will not abide by the rules will be penalized.

2.5.1.  Language

2.5.1.1.     It is compulsory to use the English language throughout the drama performance. Nevertheless, limited use of certain local Malaysian registers is allowed.

2.5.1.2.   Use of vulgar words and gestures and gruesome scenes are strictly prohibited.

2.5.1.3.   Scripts must not touch on sensitive issues for instance, race, religion, politics, etc.

2.5.2.   Theme

2.5.2.1.    Themes reflecting positive messages and values should be predominant in the drama.

2.5.3.   Costumes

2.5.3.1.    Participants should wear appropriate costumes in line with the characters they portray.

2.5.4.  Set and Props

2.5.4.1.    The use of sets and props should be minimised. The management and use of all equipment is the direct responsibility of each participating team.

2.5.4.2.   Sets and props should not hinder the movement of the team members on stage.

2.5.4.3.   Use of sharp objects (for instance knives, sharp instruments, etc.), fire, and inflammable and dangerous chemical substances is strictly prohibited.

2.5.4.4.   Each team is responsible for the setting up (5 minutes) and clearing of sets and props (5 minutes). Only the 15 participants are allowed on or behind the stage throughout the drama.

2.5.4.5.   The safety of sets and props should be ensured at all times.

2.5.4.6.   Drawing of curtains is not allowed between scenes.

2.5.5.  Music

2.5.5.1.   Each team should have technical assistant(s) from the team members to coordinate music and recordings.

2.5.6.  Lighting and Additional Equipment for Special Effects

2.5.6.1.   Participants may bring their own additional equipment. However, the equipment used must be suitable on stage and should not disrupt the flow of the drama presentation.

2.5.6.2.   Each team is responsible for managing lighting and special effects.

2.5.7.  Demeanour

2.5.7.1.    Participants should not portray indecent actions or excessive movements that are provocative.

2.5.7.2.   The presentation should take into account the comfort and safety of the audience and actors. The safety of sets and props should be ensured at all times. (drawing of curtains is not allowed at all times.

2.5.8.  Duration of Time

2.5.8.1.   The time allocated for each presentation is 20 minutes. The timing of the presentation starts with the first movement, first word uttered by the actor(s) or any sound effects. Marks will be deducted thereafter.

2.5.8.2.   Each team is responsible for the setting up (5 minutes) and clearing of sets and props (5 minutes).

2.5.9.     Adjudication

2.5.9.1.   There will be a panel of five judges at the state and national levels.

2.5.9.2.   The judges for the national level will be appointed by the Division of Co-curriculum and Arts, Ministry of Education.

2.5.9.3.   Penalty: A total of 5 marks will be deducted if:

2.5.9.3.1.    sensitive issues are touched.

2.5.9.3.2.    performance is below or above the stipulated time.

2.5.9.3.3.    stipulated exclusions under competition guidelines are infringed.

2.5.9.3.4.    use of vulgar words and gestures as well as gruesome scenes are present.

2.5.9.4.   Points will be awarded according to the scoresheet.

2.5.9.5.   The team with the majority of votes will be declared the winner.

2.5.9.6.   Individual team marks will not be disclosed.

2.5.9.7.   The decision of the judges is final.

2.5.9.8.   Leaflets are not to be distributed to the judges.

Prizes are awarded as follows: –

 Champion

Second Prize winner

Third Prize winner

Consolation Prize winner

Best Performer

Best Script Writer

2.5.11. Plaques and certificates of achievement will be awarded to the winning teams. Certificates of participation will be awarded to all participating teams.