By Vincent D’Silva

JOHOR BAHRU: The Malaysian Red Crescent Society Johor Bahru Branch celebrated its 70th anniversary in a vibrant and inspiring way, turning the spotlight on the next generation through an art competition themed “Volunteer Spirit Lights Up Malaysia”.

The event, organized by the Red Crescent Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) No. 1, drew enthusiastic participation from 17 secondary schools across Johor Bahru.

From traditional brush strokes to innovative digital creations, students showcased their vision of volunteerism, patriotism, and the enduring values of Humanity, Love, and Service that have guided the Red Crescent since its founding.

According to the organizers, the competition was designed not only to celebrate the branch’s historic milestone but also to instill in youth a deeper appreciation for the values of volunteerism.

The initiative aimed to foster patriotism, raise public awareness of the Red Crescent’s role in society, and encourage more young people to take up the torch of service.

“Art has the power to move people, to tell stories, and to inspire change,” said a spokesperson for VAD No. 1.

“By allowing young people to express what the Red Crescent means to them, we hope to plant the seeds of compassion and service that will continue to grow in their lives.”

For many students, the competition was more than a chance to win awards—it was an eye-opening journey. Several participants remarked that through researching the Red Crescent and reflecting on its mission, they gained a new understanding of humanitarian values.

Others expressed pride in using their creativity to honour an organization that has played such a vital role in Malaysia’s history.

The contest was divided into two categories: traditional drawing and digital art. Both required students to incorporate themes of patriotism, the Red Crescent, and the 70th anniversary celebration into their works.

The result was an extraordinary range of entries—some highlighting Malaysia’s diverse cultural fabric, others illustrating acts of selfless service during emergencies, and many combining national symbols with the iconic Red Crescent emblem.

“Each piece told a story,” said Chan Yung Fong, who served as head judge on the five-member panel.

“The creativity, depth, and passion we saw in these artworks prove that the younger generation is more than capable of carrying forward humanitarian values. They truly understand what it means to serve others.”

The winners were announced to much excitement, with both categories producing outstanding talents:

Traditional Drawing Category

• Champion: Yat Xiu Rong (SMK Skudai)
• 1st Runner-up: Thor Seow Sin (SMK Permas Jaya)
• 2nd Runner-up: Chai Jia Ying (SMK Sri Terbau)
• Popularity Award: Sharon Kang Ee Xuan (SMK Medini)

Digital Art Category

• Champion: Wong An Qi (SMK Taman Sutera)
• 1st Runner-up: Kua Jing Yang (SMK Dato Penggawa Timur)
• 2nd Runner-up: Ameera Damia Binti Khairul Nizam (Sekolah Tun Fatimah)
• Popularity Award: Lye Yun Xuan (SMK Dato Penggawa Timur).

The champions were praised for their originality, attention to detail, and the emotional impact of their works. Winners expressed both gratitude and joy, with many noting that the recognition gave them confidence to keep pursuing art while linking their creativity to meaningful causes.

“I feel proud to contribute to the Red Crescent’s 70th anniversary celebration,” said one winner.

“This experience has motivated me not just as an artist but also as someone who wants to serve the community.”

The competition also reflected the Red Crescent’s broader mission of nurturing future generations. Teachers, parents, and community members turned out in strong support, applauding the students for their creativity and celebrating the Red Crescent’s seven decades of service.

The organizers emphasized that VAD No. 1’s 70th anniversary was not just about looking back at the past but also about preparing for the future. “We want young people to see volunteerism as a way of life,” said one committee member.

“By engaging them through activities like this, we hope they will continue to embody the Red Crescent spirit in whatever paths they choose.”

Looking ahead, the Johor Bahru Branch pledged to continue organizing programs that blend creativity, education, and community service. With the enthusiastic response to the art competition, the organizers believe they have found a meaningful way to connect with youth and keep the flame of volunteerism burning bright.

As the Red Crescent Johor Bahru Branch marks this 70-year milestone, the art competition stands as a vivid reminder that humanitarian values are timeless—and that the spirit of service will always find expression, whether in acts of kindness, in community work, or in the bold strokes of a young artist’s imagination.