An art competition attracted 3,213 submissions from 341 schools and learning institutions nationwide across primary, secondary and tertiary institutions including public schools, private institutions and international schools.
The 9th MyTiger Values Art Competition and Exhibition (MTVACE) by Maybank Foundation, the social impact arm of Maybank Group, also received submissions from persons with disabilities and students registered under Education Ministry’s Integrated Special Education Programme.
This year’s competition, in partnership with Kakiseni, saw winners across five categories – primary school, secondary school and universities.
The initiative provided a creative avenue for students to interpret Maybank’s Tiger values (teamwork, integrity, growth, excellence and efficiency, and relationship building) into visuals through compelling and thought-provoking artworks, while at the same time raising awareness of the importance of tiger-conservation efforts.
At the exhibition, winners were presented with first, second, third and jury special prizes, sharing cash awards totalling RM55,500.
Its launch at Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, was attended by Tan Sri Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, chairman of Maybank and Maybank Foundation, Maybank group chief sustainability officer Datuk Shahril Azuar Jimin, WWF-Malaysia executive director and chief executive officer Sophia Lim as well as Maybank Foundation’s board of trustees and the bank’s board of directors.
In his opening remarks, Zamzamzairani emphasised the bank’s commitment to nurturing holistic development.
“MTVACE has evolved into a meaningful platform for students and youth to become advocates for the survival of the Malayan tiger.
“Through the power of art and storytelling, we are nurturing a generation that not only values creativity, but also understands its role in driving conservation awareness, empathy and collective responsibility for our natural heritage,” he said.
The exhibition features the work of 36 young Malaysian artists.
Visitors to the exhibition will see a compelling showcase of artworks spanning drawings, photo imaging, illustration and sequential art, each reflecting the aspiring artists’ creativity and ability to convey powerful narratives.
The university illustration category’s first-prize winner Amelia Mimie Anak Michael, 26, from TVET Mara Rembau said: “This competition challenged me to use art as a voice for change.
“Interpreting themes such as climate action and integrity through sequential art pushed me creatively and strengthened my purpose as a visual storyteller.”
Primary school first-prize winner Tan Zhi Qi, 10, from SJK (C) Foon Yew 1, said: “I wanted my artwork to show that even children could play a part in protecting nature and the Malayan tiger.
“I hope my artwork encourages more young people to care for the world around us.”
The exhibition is open to public until June 7, from 10am to 5pm daily. No bookings or ticket purchases required.
