The SEA Forensics and Debate Tournament is a celebration of language, ideas, and connection. Established by The International School of Kuala Lumpur (ISKL) in 1979, it is held annually and remains one of the school’s longest-running traditions, marking its 46th year in 2026.
The first of its kind in Southeast Asia, it is now believed to be one of the largest multicultural platforms that encourages public speaking, debating skills, and critical thinking across a diverse range of subjects.
This long-standing event embodies the spirit of community partnership, bringing together schools from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and overseas to collaborate, compete, and learn from one another.
Participating students compete in speech, debate, and performance challenges, showing exemplary expression of creativity and critical thinking - the result of many hours of practice and preparation.
Some disciplines are more philosophical in nature, and others are more theatrical. Three of the events ask students to prepare speeches under strict time limits on topics shared just moments before, while others allow for advanced preparation.
It also involves the entire school community, with a dedicated team of volunteers comprising parents, faculty, and staff who give their time to assist with judging, timing, and supervision, and help make the event a community success.
This year marked the first time the tournament welcomed spectators from community partner schools, tournament alumni, and speech enthusiasts, adding to the strong sense of community at the heart of the event.
Year after year, the SEA Forensics and Debate Tournament continues to bring people together, inspiring students while strengthening enduring community partnerships.
Head over to iskl.site/SEAForensicsandDebate to learn more about SEA Forensics and Debate at ISKL.
