Enter SIDEO.

Welcome to the Seri Iskandar Debate Open.. The inaugural 2012 Seri Iskandar Debate Open (SIDEO'12) will pave the way for an established and prominent debating platform to be organized in Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS.

The tournament objectives are clear:

1. Provide an Avenue for Intellectual Discourse

We want to see debaters of various levels ranging from students of secondary schools to tertiary institutions and even members of the general public, not only vie against each other competitively but also exchange thoughts and ideas primarily via the many comparative analyses that debates see.

2. Aid the Development of Articulate and Charismatic Speakers

Debating is often regarded the “Art of Convincing”. This intricate art is not only evaluated based on the depth of analysis of ideas but also on the manner in which the speaker puts forth his or her ideas to persuade the audience to “buy” the idea.

3. Promote Awareness of Social Norms and Government Policies

We want to encourage participants to question the feasibility of social norms and government policies in a controlled, academic environment. In doing so, we hope to inculcate awareness and a better understanding of such policies as well as the impact, the benefits and the tangible harms on the society at large.

4. Inculcate Tolerance and Open-Mindedness

Participants will have to think rationally and argue factually. They sometimes have to put aside their personal views and try to see things from the opposite side of the fence in order to win arguments. Ultimately, we hope participants would develop a tolerance towards alternate views and perspectives after each debate ends.

5. Allow the Expansion of Social Circles

Debate tournaments are also largely social events where people from all walks of life come together due to a shared passion. The elder generation of debaters make it a habit sharing their personal experiences & thoughts on current and long-standing issues with contemporaries as well as the younger generation.

Enter SIDEO.