| Aziz Idris |
ALTHOUGH plagiarism has been around as long as students have, the era of the Internet has dramatically increased the ease of and opportunities for plagiarism. Students are reminded to see plagiarism as not a solution but a form of cheating and will be guilty of academic misconduct.
This was stated by the Acting Director of the Language and Literature Bureau (DBP), Hajah Nortijah binti Haji Mohd Hassan, during her speech as the guest of honour at the prize presentation ceremony of the 2016 Mekar and Juara Pelajar Essay Writing Competition held at the Balai Sarmayuda, DBP, Berakas yesterday.
Hajah Nortijah further said plagiarism – be it deliberate or unintentional – has an impact on the research and learning process for student’s writing.
She admitted that the exact cause of plagiarism are complex, but worth examining. The inability to distinguish between plagiarised text and paraphrased texts, and incorrect citation sources, are often the root causes of unintentional plagiarism, she said.
She calls upon all teachers and parents to frequently remind students on the consequences of cheating and the penalties that comes with plagiarism.
The acting director encouraged students to research essay materials by reading more, as it not only help students strengthen vocabulary, but also enhance their knowledge.
The guest of honour, Acting Director of the Language and Literature Bureau (DBP), Hajah Nortijah binti Haji Mohd Hassan, delivers her speech at the event yesterday.
Winners of the 2016 Mekar and Juara Pelajar Essay Writing Competition with the guest of honour. – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS
“Literature helps to implement the values of its readers… This can develop the minds of children and youth, and be a medium for entertainment and moral education,” she added.
This year’s essay competition saw a total of 310 essay entries from 280 students competing in three categories. A total of 39 primary and 21 secondary schools from the government and private institution participated in this year competition.
Category A (Year 4 to Year 6) was won by Nabilah Syazilah binti Samsida from Kampong Amo ‘C’ Primary School, Temburong. Category B (Year 7 to Year 9) was won by Raihanah Umairah binti Azis from St Andrew’s School while Amyra Shaira binti Suherdy from Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College was winner of Category C.
Consolation prizes and certificate of appreciation for the best students and the top schools were also awarded.
All winners received cash prizes, certificate of participation, Juara Pelajar magazines and reading books courtesy of DBP.
The essay writing competition for Mekar and Juara Pelajar magazines started in the 1950’s. It is still relevant today especially in shaping the self-esteem of youths and educating students on the correct and proper use of the Malay language.
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