SOMETIMES all we need is a platform to shine, express, and reveal our inner abilities to the world.
This year, the Merdeka Talent Show, courtesy of the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC), returns for its fourth edition, offering potential winners a chance to win a share of the RM14,000 prize pool.
Since 2021, under the Youth and Rhythm initiative, the talent show has attracted over 200 talented youth who have showcased their skills in the performing arts.
This year, the competition features two categories: the school category for students aged 15 to 18, and the open category for youth aged 15 to 35.
The talent show welcomes a variety of talents, including singing, dancing, playing instruments, comedy, and more.
Penang Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen encouraged students and young people not to miss the golden opportunity to display their talents on such a special and meaningful platform.
“Many new talents have been discovered through this initiative, showcasing the state government’s appreciation for local youth talents by providing opportunities and space for them to express their abilities.
“All youths in Penang are encouraged to participate in and support this prestigious competition so that more young talents can be highlighted and recognised at a higher level.
“It is time for the youth of this state to prove that Penang is rich in extraordinary young talents.
“Seize this opportunity to showcase your talents and build opportunities to establish your brand in the talent industry extensively,” Gooi said during a media conference at Komtar on June 18.
Registration is open from June 11 to July 14 and can be completed by scanning the QR code found on promotional materials.
Participants must fill in their information and upload a three-minute video performance.
Eligible participants selected by the judges will be invited to perform in the final round of the Merdeka Talent Show 2024, scheduled for Sept 15, at Mydin Mall in Bukit Mertajam.
The event is supported by several partners, including the state-level National Culture and Arts Department (JKKN), Universiti Sains Malaysia (School of Arts), and Mydin Mall (Bukit Mertajam).
In other news, Gooi also announced that the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC), organised by PYDC, returns this year for its fifth edition.
YEC aims to foster youth interest in entrepreneurship and serves as a platform for them to showcase their innovative business ideas and creativity.
The competition features two categories: the secondary school category and the open category, with participants competing for a total cash prize of RM24,000.
Registration for this programme is free and is open from June 11 to July 12, with several workshops scheduled for participants.
For further information, visit https://pydc.com.my/yec2024/ or contact Mohamad Azhari at 011-11445866.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian