As a veteran Chairman of Parent Teacher Association (PIBG) with several primary and secondary schools, I found that moving from classroom learning to a competitive setting forces students to apply theoretical skills under pressure, creating a powerful feedback loop for cognitive, social & emotional growth. I discovered cognitive development means how children think, explore and figure things out. It is the development of knowledge, skills, problem solving and dispositions, which help children to think about the world around them. As such, competitions provide a unique environment that sharpens a child's mental faculties more intensely than casual play. Tournaments act as a “school for life,” teaching children to navigate any intense psychology situations.
In this context, I always encourage my Primary 6, grand-daughter, Ilfi Fatihah binti Mohd Faiz, to participate in a variety of chess competitions, ranging from school based pathway (Kejohanan Catur MSSM), regional school tournaments, to local community events, example, the KipMall Kota Warisan (U12 Category). The most common route for primary students is through the Ministry of Education's school sports system: MSSD (District Level), MSS (State Level), MSSM (National Level). These events are recognized by Malaysian Chess Federation (MCF) that offer opportunities for international tournament. (www.moe.gov.my>sports<); www.malaysiachess.org)
I observed by participating in chess competitions provides Ilfi with significant better school performance and life skills. Research indicates that structured competition acts as a powerful motivator, pushing children to achieve higher levels of mental alertness. Competitions challenge students to apply their knowledge under pressure, leading to measurable cognitive gains. I saw Ilfi experience improvement in math problem-solving & reading comprehension.
Ilfi had revealed to me that “The chess tournaments require me to analyze complex situations, anticipate my opponent moves & evaluate multiple options simultaneously, fostering advanced analytical abilities. I learn the importance of thinking before making my big moves, developing the habit of considering long-term consequences for my decisions. I learn that losing is a learning experience, encouraging me to analyze errors and bounce with better strategies.”
Zulkifly Baharom (hajizul50@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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