By Izzud deen Redzuan
GOMBAK, 13 October 2014: Debaters from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) were the amazing victors of this year’s “The Great Gender Debate 2014” for both categories (Bahasa Melayu and English language) for the fourth year running.
The competition, held from 10 until 13 October 2014 and hosted by Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), was  jointly organised by the Majlis Debat Universiti Malaysia (MADUM) and the NAM Institute for the Empowerment of Women (NIEW).
The establishment of “The Great Gender Debate” by the NIEW was aimed at raising awareness amongst society, with the exchange of ideas and topics related to the issues concerning gender, particularly the youths.
Both IIUM debate teams received RM 3,500 and trophies from Minister of Women, Family & Community Development, Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim. UPM was represented at the  award giving ceremony by its Deputy Vice Chancellor (Students’ Affairs & Alumni), Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Shatar Sabran.
Ainur Rabiatuadawiyah Hassim and Ahmad Hazim Nurahmadi, both second-year law students won the Overall Best Speaker for the Bahasa Melayu and English category respectively. Together, they received RM600.
“I feel very grateful for this achievement, thanks to all members for their support. This title has brought a thousand meanings to me and the members. For the next tournament, whether I am in the team or not, I hope, the team will bring more achievements to make our University proud,” said Ainur Rabiatuadawiyah Hassim.
IIUM Malay debate team will participate in the “Debat Alam Sekitar 2014” at Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMaP) later this month.
Photos by Mizan Muhammad & Syazwan Suhaimi