Debates can help shape critical thinking, effective communication skills, says Penang CM

DEBATES can become a platform to equip the younger generation with critical thinking, effective communication skills and mutual respect despite differing opinions or mindsets, said Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

He hopes that more debates can be organised throughout the country, especially at school levels.

The initiative to organise an Education Minister National Madani Generation Debate Competition should therefore be lauded, as it grooms the young to face up to the challenges of the current age, said Chow.

"For the young debaters, I am confident that the experience earned will become something precious and they can grow to become future leaders," said Chow.

Among the prominent young debaters, who have since grown to become national leaders were former PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and former PKR vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

"There is no winner or loser. By participating, all debaters are the real winners as they have shown poise and courage to speak their mind. They have discipline and the intellect to solidify their arguments," said Chow.

Penang hosted the final rounds of the inaugural national debate competition recently where 16 state teams including from the Federal Territories took part.

The grand finals would be held at Putrajaya at a later date.

Chow also said that the state is committed  towards expanding its pursue of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills among the young.

This can also translate to better rollouts of innovative and inventive products.

"Penang is renowned as the Silicon Valley of the East and a preferred tourism destination as well as a heritage zone recognised by Unesco."

The state is also renowned as a leading educational hub with many public and private institutions of higher learning for the young to tap, he added.

Among the top debaters were Aydin Sufi Shaiful (Selangor), Muhammad Ilyas Noraizam (Melaka), Muhammad Amer Lutfi Mahran (Johor), Damia Qalesya Ahmad Afizul Haq (Kedah), Siti Nabilah Syakirah Ahmad Ikkrom (Kedah), Alia Shahidan (Kuala Lumpur), Syarifah Syazwani Syed Abdul Hamid (Kelantan), Anis Malaeka Husni (Sabah), Muhammad Arshad Mohd. Redzuan (Terengganu) and Muhammad Adam Irzaq Mohd Fatimie Irzaq (Perak). - September 11, 2025