2023 Nanying Cup International Chinese Debate Competition was successfully concluded at Xiamen University Malaysia on 26 November 2023. Zhejiang University and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman won first place and the first runner-up, respectively.

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Zhejiang University at the Award Ceremony

University of Melbourne, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (Sungai Long Campus), and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia were among the top six; and the best debater of the whole tournament was Lai Xiangjun from Zhejiang University.

The competition was organized by XMUM Chinese Debate Society and co-organised by XMUM Student Council, attracting teams from 18 renowned universities around the world, including Zhejiang University, Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen Campus), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, University of Melbourne, and Universiti Malaya.

In the final round, Zhejiang University and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman presented a heated debate on the topic “Is intelligence a virtue”, showcasing the audience a subtle and brilliant exchange of ideas.

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At the closing ceremony, Dr. Zhang Ying, Vice President of Xiamen University Malaysia, highlighted the significance of the event. She said that apart from an artistic expression of language, debate is a powerful tool for exploring social issues and a source of pride for the international Chinese community.

She added that Nanying Cup, which was initiated in 2016 by XMUM students, has not only brought an international style to the campus, but also built a bridge of cultural exchange and international friendship for young people from different countries.

Wu Xinrui, Chairman of the Organising Committee, summarized:

"We faced unprecedented challenges in the preparation of this competition. Luckily, with the efforts of our team members and the support of the seniors, the competition was finally held successfully, which gave all of us a great sense of achievement."

"We hope that through our continuous efforts, we can make further contributions to the tradition of critical thinking and the spirit of freedom in Chinese debate."

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Group photo of the committee members

Launched in 2016 and held annually, Nanying Cup International Chinese Debate Competition is now one of the eight international tournaments selected for Chinese Debate Competition Ranking List.

Chinese debate in Malaysia can be traced back to the 1970s. It has gradually evolved into an indispensable educational activity in local tertiary institutions, and an important part of Malaysia's cultural diversity.