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When Language Comes to Life

Mother Tongue Fortnight

During the Mother Tongue Fortnight programme held from 30 March to 8 April 2026, our student-athletes stepped beyond the classroom and into a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that invited them to see, hear, and feel their heritage in new ways.

Across the fortnight, spaces around the school transformed into vibrant cultural hubs. Brushes met paper, rhythms filled the air, and words took on new meaning. For many, it was a chance to slow down, try something unfamiliar, and find pride in where they come from.


For our student-athletes learning Mandarin, the Chinese tradition came alive through art and storytelling. The delicate strokes of ink painting required patience and control, while seal carving introduced them to the craftsmanship behind identity marks once used by scholars. The story challenge, on the other hand, flipped the script, inviting creativity and imagination to take centre stage.


Student-athletes learning Malay explored language through both form and performance. From the intricate beauty of Jawi calligraphy to the expressive depth of poetry in a special session with Art Fazil, language became something to be seen and felt. The Sahiba competition added a lively twist, challenging students to think on their feet and celebrate the richness of vocabulary.


For our Indian students, culture was experienced through rhythm and colour. The Parai workshop brought energy and history together, as students learned the significance of the traditional drum through movement and sound. Meanwhile, glass painting offered a quieter, reflective space, where creativity flowed through colour and design.

Student-athletes were well engaged during the activities, leaning in, asking questions, and embracing the unfamiliar. In doing so, they did not just learn about their culture. They connected with it.