Masterpieces: Winning entries by Ler En (pic, above), Joelle (1st, below) and Ellen (2nd, below).
OVER 115,000 students from schools nationwide have made their way into the Malaysia Book of Records for being part of the “Largest Young Artist Colouring Contest”.
Supported by the Education Ministry, Faber-Castell Malaysia recently concluded the fourth year of its Young Artist Award 2024 – a programme designed to encourage students to look beyond traditional art, and foster critical thinking on sustainability and environmental advocacy, a press release dated Dec 11 read. The programme, which culminated in a sustainability-themed colouring contest, welcomed entries across three categories for ages five to 17.
The three Grand Winners were Wong Ler En (Category A: five to eight years old), Ooi Joelle (Category B: nine to 12 years old), and Chan Ellen (Category C: 13 to 17 years old).
Through three contest rounds, students engaged with environmental topics and showcased their unique perspectives on sustainable practices through their art. The Grand Winner in each category received RM2,000, Faber-Castell products worth RM500, a trophy, and the title of Young Artist Ambassador for Faber-Castell Malaysia.
Empowering their creative journey, participants also attended masterclasses led by expert artists. These workshops, embedded with values of sustainability, eco-friendly living, empathy and community engagement, not only nurtured artistic talents but also inspired participants to grow as responsible, compassionate individuals.
An aspiring environmental scientist, Ellen presented a vibrant depiction of nature and technology coexisting in harmony, as she envisioned a future where innovation drives sustainability.
“The workshops not only helped me hone my artistic skills but also inspired me to think deeply about how I can use my passion and future career to contribute to a greener world,” she said.
Ler En, who imagined a future where people actively care for the planet, created a world with solar panels, wind turbines, reforestation, and sustainable practices like reducing waste and conserving resources in her masterpiece.
“This contest made me think about all the small ways we can help the earth, like planting trees and using clean energy.
“The workshops taught me to use art to bring my ideas to life. I hope my artwork encourages others to take care of the earth and make it greener,” she explained.
Partnering with eco-friendly developer Gamuda Land, Faber-Castell invited the top 30 finalists to visit Paya Indah Wetlands, one of Malaysia’s protected Wetlands Reserve, where they joined handicraft workshops and explored the reserve’s natural landscapes, gaining an appreciation for Malaysia’s biodiversity and interconnected ecosystems.
This immersive experience sparked new ideas, especially for urban students, enabling them to incorporate nature-inspired motifs into their artwork.
The trip to Paya Indah Wetlands, said Joelle, was an eye-opening experience that directly influenced her winning piece – a lush, thriving landscape intertwined with symbols of sustainable living.
She added that it was a meaningful and unforgettable trip that gave her a close-up view of nature’s beauty, found in diverse flora and fauna.
“Through the blending techniques we learnt in the workshops, I tried to capture that beauty in my art to show how important it is to protect our planet.
“I hope my piece inspires others to feel the same and care about ensuring our world stays vibrant and full of life,” she said.
Faber-Castell Malaysia managing director Andrew Woon expressed pride in the programme’s role in fostering environmental awareness and creativity among youth.
“The future is in the hands of our children, and empowering them as changemakers is vital.
“By combining creativity with environmental responsibility, programmes like the Young Artist Award help students gain confidence and find their own voices using mediums like colour pencils, poster colours and oil pastels.
“We hope they emerge not only as skilled artists but also as advocates for sustainability,” he said.
