"Ilham Seni Diraja" Programme Shields Children From Online Influences

KUALA LUMPUR,  Feb 14  (Bernama) -- The “Ilham Seni Diraja” programme has been described as a lifeline for teenagers, particularly those from B40 families, amid growing concerns over the challenges and risks of the digital age.

The initiative aims to shield young people from negative online influences and social ills by engaging them in structured artistic and character-building activities.

For participant Aleesya Umairah Mohamed Jamil, 13, the programme has not only nurtured her artistic talent but also broadened her social circle in a positive environment, serving as a buffer against the harmful influences of cyberspace.

“I’ve gained so many meaningful experiences, including meeting friends from other schools. By joining the choir and attending intensive training sessions at Istana Negara every two weeks, I’ve also become more confident,” she told Bernama here today.

Her mother, Sanisa Ahmad, 49, said she was deeply encouraged by her daughter’s transformation, noting significant improvements in both performance and self-confidence.

She expressed gratitude that the programme offers a far more constructive alternative to excessive social media exposure.

Similarly, Irdayati Makmur, 51, said her son Aqeef Fahim Zulkifly, 14, now spends less time on his mobile phone and more time exploring art, acting and public performances.

Muhammad Nur Asrul Muhammad Farouq, 14, also shared that the initiative has allowed him to develop his potential, particularly in choral singing through structured vocal training.

The student of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Dato' Ibrahim Yaacob described it as a priceless experience to perform at Istana Negara before Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, an opportunity he regarded as a golden moment in his life.

His father, Muhammad Farouq Abdullah, 52, said Her Majesty personally took the time to ask about the children’s artistic interests, including their inclination towards singing, and instructed officers to liaise with schools and relevant parties to further nurture their talents.

“Alhamdulillah, this is the best opportunity for our children. I hope this programme continues so that more students can showcase their talents, pursue their interests and build strong character,” he said.

Launched by Her Majesty on Jan 30, the pioneering programme involves 200 students from the federal capital and aims to foster unity, cultivate positive values and open pathways to a brighter future for underprivileged B40 children.

Earlier, Her Majesty visited the Wahyu and Beringin People’s Housing Projects (PPR), where she spent time with participants of the programme and presented contributions to them and their families.

The Queen also extended aid to senior citizens, persons with disabilities and the underprivileged under the Community-Based Rehabilitation Programme (PDK).

Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud, Federal Territories Department Director-General Datuk Muhammad Azmi Mohd Zain and Kuala Lumpur Deputy Police Chief Datuk Mohd Azani Omar.

-- BERNAMA