KUCHING: Courage, confidence and personal growth took centre stage as participants of the Toastmasters District 87, Division D ‘Champion of Champions’ Speech Contests were celebrated at a prize-giving ceremony held at the SUPP Headquarters here today, with support from the host party.
The ceremony marked the culmination of the Division D speech contests, bringing together contestants, judges and Toastmasters members in recognition of excellence in public speaking and leadership development.
In her address, Division D Director, Joanna Then, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the organising team, noting that a successful event is never by chance but the result of meticulous effort behind the scenes.
She commended the contestants for their courage in stepping onto the stage, describing it as a meaningful decision to challenge themselves, face pressure and strive to become better individuals.
“Today is not just about competition, but about stepping forward,” she said, adding that every contestant who took the stage had made a conscious choice to grow.
Joanna highlighted that Toastmasters goes beyond developing speaking skills, emphasising its role in building confidence, nurturing leadership and encouraging individuals to take action.
“This stage is not the end, it is part of something bigger,” she said.
She also extended appreciation to the judges and functionaries for upholding the standards of Toastmasters with professionalism and integrity.
To the organising team, she credited them for creating a platform where members can shine, challenge themselves and grow.
Joanna further encouraged members to continue supporting one another, stressing that growth within Toastmasters is never a solo journey.
She concluded by congratulating all contestants, noting that regardless of the outcome, each participant had achieved something meaningful through their journey.
In the Bahasa Malaysia (Pidato) Speech Contest, Abdul Al-Azim Ismail emerged as champion, followed by Hiew Sing Siong in second place and Thomas Teng Keng Kui in third.
For the International Speech Contest, Joyces Sim May Yung took first place, with John Lau finishing second and Paul Ashween in third.
In the Evaluation Contest, Lim Pei Teng clinched the top spot, followed by Arwen Zahra in second place and Hiew Sing Siong in third.
Meanwhile, the Table Topics Contest saw John Lau taking first place, Paul Ashween in second and Joyces Sim May Yung in third.
Winners of the division-level contests will advance to represent Division D at the Toastmasters International District 87 Speech Contests scheduled to be held in Sibu next month.
