KUCHING – Two educational institutions from Miri have been declared the overall victors of the recently concluded Premier Debate Challenge.
The competition, which showcased the oratory talents of secondary school students from across the state, concluded with separate awards for debates held in English and Bahasa Malaysia.
Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Lutong secured the championship title for the English category. The team was praised by adjudicators for its compelling presentation techniques and exceptional teamwork throughout the tournament.
Adding to the school’s accolades, its student, Leann Yii Zhen, was individually honoured with the Best Debate award.
The runner-up position in the English category was claimed by SMK Chung Hua Miri. Meanwhile, the third-place honours were jointly awarded to Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School and SM Sains Kuching Utara from Padawan.
The event highlights the growing emphasis on developing critical thinking and public speaking skills within the state’s curriculum.
In the Bahasa Malaysia category, Sekolah Menengah Sains Miri emerged as the champion. The team demonstrated a remarkable grasp of complex subjects and a keen awareness of contemporary issues, which significantly contributed to their success.
A student from the champion school, Rania Zulaikha Radzami, was also recognised as the Best Debate speaker for her outstanding contributions.
SMK Santubong was named the runner-up in this category. The third place was shared between students from SMK Kubong and Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School, the latter institution having achieved a podium finish in both linguistic categories.
The prize-giving ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development for Sarawak, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
He was in attendance alongside the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Datu Adana Jed. In his address, the minister commended the dedication and passion exhibited by all participants.
He emphasised the profound value of such extracurricular activities, noting that debating fosters self-assurance, cultivates leadership qualities, and strengthens collaborative spirit among young people.
He encouraged the students to persistently refine their communication abilities, which are vital for their future endeavours.
The event was also graced by several senior officials, including the Head of the Education Division at MEITD, Donald Henry Nohed. The Senior Assistant Director from the Student Development Sector of the Sarawak State Education Department, Hazali Madihi, and the Director of the Sarawak Branch of the Language and Literature Board, Dr. Azizul Ismail, were also present. Such competitions are seen as a key initiative by the state government to nurture a new generation of articulate and analytically skilled leaders.
