Johan Speaking Academy has made history by earning a spot in the ASEAN Book of Records for the Most Cumulative Outdoor Public Speaking Sessions by Children Aged 5 to 17, Trained by a Single Public Speaking Academy Since 2015 (6,869 sessions).
Main image: Johan Ooi, The Founder of Johan Speaking Academy & Co-Founder Cherry Ho in dark Top at the middle with the rest of the educators
This milestone marks the academy’s 10-year commitment to providing children with real-world speaking experiences outside the classroom, from shopping malls and theme parks to government events, corporate stages, and even the zoo.
This record recognises not only quantity, but also impact. Each speech was part of an organised academy activity, delivered to a live audience, and thoroughly documented with photos and attendance records.
Over the past 10 years, Johan Speaking Academy has consistently created these opportunities, driven by the belief that public speaking is best learned through real-life experience.
The record celebration was made even more meaningful with the presence of Datuk Rosly @ Rahmat Ahmat Lana, President of Zoo Negara, who graciously witnessed the occasion alongside the academy’s students, families, and coaches.
Founded in 2014, Johan Speaking Academy was built on a simple belief: children become confident speakers not by sitting in a classroom, but by standing in front of real audiences. Since then, the team has organised 6,869 outdoor public speaking sessions, allowing children aged 5 to 17 to share their voices in public spaces across Malaysia.
“It’s not just another achievement to display; it represents years of effort and every child’s growth,” said Johan, founder of Johan Speaking Academy.
“It represents every child who took a brave step onto the stage and every coach who stood behind them. It’s a celebration of growth, courage and the power of a supportive community.”
The academy was established in 2014 and has since grown to 11 locations across Malaysia, including:
- Klang Valley: TTDI, Cheras, Bandar Puteri Puchong, Kota Damansara, Setia Alam, Kajang, Bukit Jalil, and Rawang
- Ipoh Garden South (Perak)
- Taman Molek and Eco Botanic (Johor)
In 2023, Johan Speaking Academy expanded its impact through franchising, offering a ready-to-run business model for individuals passionate about empowering children. This includes full training, marketing support, and structured modules under the Speaker Warrior brand, making it a perfect opportunity for stay-at-home moms, teachers, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Students Voices:
What’s Next?
Johan Speaking Academy is preparing to expand its footprint regionally through:
- Franchising and master franchise partnerships across ASEAN.
- Collaborations with schools and kindergartens.
- Certification programs for educators through its Train-The-Educator (Kids Public Speaking)
Key Events
- 6 July 2025 – ASEAN Record Celebration at Zoo Negara, featuring new student brand ambassadors
- 14 Sept 2024 – Students presented on stage at the MAHA 100th anniversary, in front of the Prime Minister and ASEAN delegates.
- Jan 2024 – A Johan student explained the MADANI concept to 3,000 attendees during a national event in Kuala Selangor, graced by the Prime Minister.
- Dec 2019 – Student co-emceeing for APEC Launch in Cyberjaya, attended by the Prime Minister and ASEAN leaders.
This ASEAN recognition is just the beginning. Johan Speaking Academy remains committed to building a confident generation of young leaders, one stage at a time.
