✦ MCCH Essay Competition 2026 ✦
My Raya Storyfrom the UK
Growing up Malaysian in Britain means Raya has its own special flavour — rendang from a Manchester kitchen, a WhatsApp call with cousins in KL, ketupat made in a flat in Longsight.
We want to hear your story. Winners announced live at MCCH Raya 2026 on 12 April.
🎂Who can enter
Ages 5 – 25
Anak-anak MCCH
✍️Word count
300 – 3000
English, Malay or both
📅Deadline
11 April 2026 (extended!)
11:59 pm GMT
The Writing Prompt
"Describe a moment from Eid ul-Fitr (Hari Raya Aidilfitri) that you will always remember — and what it means to celebrate it here in the United Kingdom."
Your essay can be personal, reflective, funny, or poetic. You might write about food, family, fashion, prayer, missing Malaysia, or finding community — there are no wrong answers. What matters most is that it is your truth.
How Essays Are Judged
Each entry is assessed across three equal criteria:
📖
Story
A clear, engaging narrative with heart
✍️
Writing
Clear expression, grammar and flow
💡
Creativity
Originality and a fresh perspective
✦ Prizes ✦
🥇 1st Place — £30 voucher + certificate
🥈 2nd Place — £20 voucher
🥉 3rd Place — £10 voucher
🎉 Winners will be announced in person at MCCH Raya 2026 — 12 April 2026, 422 Community Hub, Manchester.
✦ Eligibility & Rules ✦
Parent(s) must be member(s) of MCCH
Unlimited entry. Submit as many as you can!
Work must be original and unpublished
Parental consent required for under 13s
AI-generated submissions will be disqualified
Submitted essays may be shared publicly
Winners announced 12 April at MCCH Raya 2026