KUCHING: Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus is optimistic that the Swinburne Sarawak Inter-School Debating Championship (SSIDC) will continue to see strong participation in the years ahead, while inspiring more students to pursue their studies at the institution.
Pro-Vice Chancellor and chief executive officer Ir Prof Lau Hieng Ho expressed hope that participants of this year’s championship would return for the 22nd edition and that some would eventually enrol as students at Swinburne Sarawak.
“I hope to meet many of you again if you are still qualified and eligible next year at the 22nd SSIDC and perhaps on campus as a student of Swinburne Sarawak,” he said.
Lau said this during the award presentation ceremony of the 21st SSIDC held at the university’s campus here on Thursday.
He also voiced aspirations for English debating to continue expanding beyond Sarawak, gaining traction across Malaysia, Borneo and the wider region.
“May the SSIDC continue to enjoy healthy participation from schools across the region, and may English debate continue to grow and attract students not only from Sarawak but throughout Malaysia, Borneo and beyond,” he added.
Highlighting the significance of the tournament, he noted that SSIDC has grown into a major platform for young debaters over the past 21 years, nearly matching the age of the university itself.
“This is already the 21st year of the championship, while Swinburne Sarawak is 26 years old.
“The tournament is older than many of the students here,” he said, describing the milestone as “truly an extraordinary feat”.
He added that the tournament has evolved beyond initial expectations through the dedication of staff and students, particularly the Swinburne Debating Club.
“These are feats that we were never able to imagine when we first started, made possible by our dedicated staff and students,” he said.
This year’s championship drew 80 teams — comprising 44 in the senior category and 36 in the junior category — involving about 240 students.
Lau emphasised that while the competition was intense, the true value of the championship lies beyond winning.
“It is not about winning the trophy. It is about the three days — the process, the involvement, the participation, and very importantly, the friendships that you gain,” he said.
He also commended participants for their dedication, resilience and high level of performance throughout the tournament.
“You have all demonstrated exceptional dedication and talent throughout the tournament. While there have been ups and downs over the three days, you should be proud of your achievements,” he said.
The event, he added, continues to serve as a platform to enhance English proficiency, critical thinking and communication skills among students.
“It helps to build the young generation’s skills and makes them useful and productive individuals in society,” he said.
Participants this year came from Sarawak, Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia and Indonesia, reflecting the tournament’s growing regional reach.
“We truly appreciate the support from principals, teachers and parents who allow their students and children to come from near and far to participate in this unique debating tournament,” he said.
He added that Swinburne Sarawak looks forward to welcoming many of the participants back in future editions, both as debaters and potentially as students of the university.
The debate, which was held from April 13 to 16, saw SMK Green Road emerge as champion in the senior category, while SM Lodge clinched the junior category title.
Alana Jane Wong was named Best Debater in the junior category, while Vellan Yue Yaang took the Best Debater award in the senior category.
