This is with reference to the articles published at Akademi Debat [www.akademidebat.com], which is in regards to the increasing registration fee for schools.

IIUM debate unit has always been regarded as a body that promotes debate and argumentation, not just among fellow tertiary institutions but also to schools. The outlook on the IIUM School Debate is no longer treated as a mere debate competition, it has rapidly evolved and the position that it has gained has no less made the annual event a programme with a ring of social responsibility. The event has been a moral fiber in fostering and nurturing great minds and savvy speakers - Perhaps the organizers are ignorant of their power and position. Or perhaps, the ignorance is a matter of choice.

It is regretful to see an increase in the fees. But on a reasonable note, if the increased fee is justified and proven, an outcry would then be deemed stupid. Accordingly, I suggest that the organizers responds to this screech. Placing a query mind in a state of uncertainty would definitely lead to the development of speculations – which is at all times an unpleasant thing. It doesn’t hurt to practice good PR. It definitely hurts to be silent.

For the people who cry injustice, we all understand the anguish and gloom. And I personally laud your efforts by your scholarships that you have provided. Hence, my company [H&G Strategic Communications] would like to follow suit. We would like to offer RM1,000 worth of scholarship which will be distributed to 4 different schools that has never participated in this event. This offer is however strictly for participation in the English category. Interested? Contact me at 016 352 1643 or email me at yunus@hngsc.com. Upon agreement, we would probably like half-a-day of your student’s precious time to attend a talk regarding the technicalities of competitive debating.

Just before I end. The registration fee might be an issue for the majority of schools, but it’s not an issue for companies. In early 2006, Bursa Malaysia has made it a requirement for public listed companies to disclose their CSR reports. Late 2006, we saw the Department of Standards coming up with outlines regarding good CSR practices. This has also led to Khazanah Nasional drawing up documents and directives for GLC’s CSR practices. These are all openings or opportunities to gain more scholarships for participating schools. I would suggest that the organizers establish a team to lookout for scholarships for these schools. A mere RM250 per team / school is what most public listed companies make in seconds. Good luck!