STAR English Debate Team Competes with Honour at Prime Minister’s Cup National Debate Championship 2025

M Sains Kota Tinggi, Johor – 23 to 26 June 2025 – The Sekolah Tuanku Abdul Rahman (STAR) English Debate Team recently took part in the Prime Minister’s Cup National Debate Championship 2025 (English Category), hosted at SM Sains Kota Tinggi, Johor. This prestigious tournament gathered the nation’s top debating schools for four days of intense intellectual exchange and spirited competition.

Representing STAR in this national-level event were four young debaters:

1. Muhammad Haiman Ang bin Haidar Zhafri (Form 5)
2. Nik Emir Qalif bin Mohamad Fikri (Form 3)
3. Ahmad Iman Iskandar bin Mohd Rashidi (Form 3)
4. Ali Imran bin Nurul Muiz (Form 2)

Despite being a relatively new line-up, the team showed determination, growth, and courage as they went head-to-head with some of the most established teams in the country.

📊 Preliminary Round Results:

1. STAR vs FARIS PETRA – Lost (1–2)
2. STAR vs SESTA – Won (2–1) ⭐️
3. STAR vs SERATAS – Lost (1–2)
4. SESERI vs STAR – Lost (1–2)
5. SASEM vs STAR – Won (3–0) ⭐️

At the end of the five preliminary rounds, STAR was ranked 20th out of 38 teams—a respectable position considering the young age and limited experience of the current team members. Although the team did not qualify for the octo-finals, their effort and potential did not go unnoticed.

💬 A Journey of Growth and Promise

Throughout the tournament, the debaters displayed courage, composure, and maturity beyond their years. Each match was a learning experience that sharpened their critical thinking, teamwork, and public speaking skills.

The team’s coaches and fellow students expressed pride in the effort shown by the team, acknowledging the uphill challenge of competing against more seasoned debaters.

“We gave it our all. Though we didn’t make it to the knockouts, this is just the beginning. We’re determined to come back stronger next year,” said one of the team members.

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The school congratulates the STAR English Debate Team for their admirable performance and unwavering spirit. With continued training and experience, the future looks bright for English debate at STAR.