Public Speaking Friendship Competition

Reported by: Ven. Uttamasāra (BA1 student)
On 24 October 2026, the International Buddhist College (IBC) organized a Public Speaking Friendship Competition from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The event aimed to develop students’ public speaking skills, build confidence, and strengthen friendship among the participants.

Nine contestants participated in the competition, including one from Hat Yai University and eight from IBC. The event was hosted by Mdm. H’ng Siew Tuan from Malaysia, with Mdm. Lye Keok Wah, Mdm. Lim Peng Peng and Mr. Ong Beng Chung serving as judges. The contestants delivered their speeches before the audience and judging panel.

While awaiting the results, participants attended a special talk entitled “LIGHT the Way to Excellence,” delivered by Mdm. H’ng Siew Tuan, a distinguished entrepreneur. She introduced five principles: Learning, Improve, Give, Hardworking, and Take Responsibility (LIGHT), emphasizing continuous daily improvement.

Following the competition, the judges provided an overall evaluation and offered constructive feedback on speech content, delivery, and body language. As part of the feedback, Mdm. Lye Keok Wah shared five practical public speaking tips through the SHARE framework:

S — Stand Out: Make yourself distinctive through appearance and body language.
H — Highlight: Emphasize key messages for the audience.
A — Audience: Connect with listeners through eye contact and engagement.
R — Remember: Make your speech memorable and leave a lasting impression.
E — Emotion: Convey emotion through effective voice delivery.

The event concluded with an award ceremony recognizing four contestants:

First Prize: Ven. Uttamasāra
Second Prize: Ven. Prottoy Barua
Third Prize: Ven. Wellane Ananda Thero
Honorable Mention: Ms. Thamonwan Sae-choen

Ven. Zhen Sheng presented the prizes to the winners, while Ven. Dhananjoy Barua awarded the certificates to all participants. Ven. Dr. Zhen Ti also presented gifts to all judges, the Master of Ceremony and Dr. Sumontha from Hat Yai University for their commitment and support towards this event.

In conclusion, the competition provided an opportunity to improve public speaking skills while promoting friendship and cooperation between IBC and Hat Yai University. The event would not be possible without the involvement of all members, including those who sponsored the prizes and lunch dana after the event. Therefore, we would like to express our appreciation to International Buddhist College and all parties who contributed to the success of the event.

My Experience Sharing
Reported by: Thamonwan Sae-choen (Participant, Hat Yai University)
International Buddhist College (IBC) organized a Public Speaking Friendship Competition on 24 November 2026. I was one of the participants. This event gave me a wonderful experience and greater confidence in speaking English in front of others. It was truly a memorable event, filled with meaningful experiences - from the warm welcome and engaging conversations to the insightful advice that inspired personal growth. I was also deeply impressed by the atmosphere of politeness, kindness, and mutual respect throughout the event.

I sincerely hope that this event will become an annual tradition, providing more students at my university with opportunities to express themselves, share ideas, and exchange perspectives in a small, warm, and welcoming environment that feels just like home.
I also hope that we will have the opportunity to work together on other events in the future. If given the chance, I would be delighted to participate in this event again.

Thank you so much, International Buddhist College, for everything, especially for everyone's kindness, sincerity, and warm hospitality. I truly appreciate this wonderful experience, and I will cherish the memories it has given me.

Video:
https://youtu.be/bRD8r1ZK7vY

Photo Gallery:
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1YRH4M3e3rCRBHUpXUgUG0wf24P1M...