KUCHING: Civil society Sarawak Initiatives (TSI) has announced the winners of the state-level public speaking competition, recognising 11 outstanding young speakers for their exceptional performance in knowledge, charisma, and persuasive ability.
The competition, held on April 27, saw 95 participants from across Sarawak compete in the preliminary round under the theme ‘The Voice of Sarawak Youths’.
The event was judged by a distinguished panel including former law lecturer Samuel Desmond Tuah, Saberkas Negeri Sarawak Executive Committee member Albert Loi, Toastmasters incumbent president Pei Chai, Sekolah Menengah Sains Kuching English teacher Mani Jack, and Politeknik Kuching English lecturer Aeida Zahili.
The judges assessed contestants on content, delivery, and overall impact. After careful deliberation, the top 11 winners were named.
The junior category winners are Ryan Ngo Tan Chang Sheng from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bandar Baru Seri Petaling, Selangor; Rachael Chai Xin Ru (St. Joseph’s Private Secondary School, Kuching); Evonne Wong Yuan Yan (St. Joseph’s International School, Kuching); Ann Wong En Hui (St. Joseph’s International School, Samarahan); and Tan Veyron (SMK Kuching High, Kuching).
In the youth category, the top winners are Liew Hui Yee (Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Batu Lintang, Miri); Esmat Danyal Es Zulkarnaen (i-CATS College University, Kuching); Villery Vrifrezsa Dubau William Jimbun (Politeknik Kuching Sarawak, Kuching); Muhammad Hud Aqeel Abdullah (Universiti Putra Malaysia Kampus Bintulu Sarawak, Bintulu); Evelyn Teo Bao Yin (SMK St. Joseph, Kuching); and Julian Eymard Sigah Suling (SMK St. Joseph, Kuching).
Telford Tan, the event organising chairperson, praised the finalists for their oratorical skills and their understanding of current affairs in Sarawak.
He stressed the importance of youth engagement in addressing critical issues and encouraged participants to remain motivated, emphasising that the competition underscores the significance of youth involvement in societal development.
The grand final will be held on June 22 at the Islamic Information Centre here.
The event is open to the public, and those interested should book early due to limited seating. Admission is free.
For registration, contact TSI via WhatsApp at 019-8767928 or email thesarawakinitiatives@gmail.com.
