Melaka: The introduction of an additional RM1,000 grant for the winner of the Rukun Negara Oratory Competition this year is expected to serve as a strong motivational boost for participants and encourage greater participation in the future. National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang announced that the additional grant will be awarded to the winners in the Primary School, Secondary School, and Institution of Higher Learning (IPT) categories.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Melaka government will also sponsor a consolation prize of RM1,000 for the school or institution with the highest number of participants across all three categories. Aaron expressed pride in the overwhelming response from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak and highlighted the grant as an added motivation expected to attract more participants in the coming years. He made these remarks at the final round of the national-level 2025 Rukun Negara Oratory Competition for the Tuan Yang Terutama Yang Dipertua Negeri Melaka Cup, held at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC), Ayer Keroh. The event was attended by Melaka Governor Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

Aaron noted the sharp rise in entries for the sixth edition of the competition, with an extraordinary 9,321 participants across five categories, reflecting the commitment to embracing the Rukun Negara's principles. He underscored the competition's role in promoting unity and nation-building, emphasizing its importance amid today's complex world. Aaron stressed that the Rukun Negara provides a guiding foundation for harmonious living in Malaysia's diverse society.

Chief Minister Ab Rauf expressed optimism that the competition would inspire patriotism and healthy competition, with the RM1,000 incentive and increased prize value serving as catalysts for the younger generation to embody the Rukun Negara's principles. He emphasized the competition's role in strengthening national unity.