Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) Debate Team A, comprising Ng Wei Hao, Leong Yu Hang, Lean Zuo Yan, and Tin Ya Wen emerged as Champions of the virtual 8th Hou Xue Cup National University Debate Tournament 2026, defeating Multimedia University (MMU) Melaka Team A 2–1 in the Mandarin-format Grand Final and securing APU’s first-ever national debate title following a month of intense preparation under alumnus coach Chow Lih Yang, with Ng Wei Hao and Lean Zuo Yan also placing 2nd and 3rd respectively in the overall Top 10 Best Debaters rankings.

In a landmark success for the university’s literary and debating community, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) Debate Team A emerged victorious as Champions of the virtual 8th Hou Xue Cup National University Debate Tournament 2026. 

Outshining 20 formidable university teams from across Malaysia, the team delivered a stellar performance to secure the prestigious title alongside major individual accolades.

The champion line-up featured a diverse cohort of scholars, comprising Artificial Intelligence students Ng Wei Hao and Leong Yu Hang, alongside Electrical and Electronic Engineering student Lean Zuo Yan, and International Studies student Tin Ya Wen. 

They were coached by APU alumnus Chow Lih Yang, who actively supports the team through continuous guidance and advice.

Conducted in Mandarin and adhering to the dynamic Chinese-Style Debate Format, the tournament tested participants on nuanced social and familial issues through every round.

APU Team A showcased exceptional critical thinking and oratorical skill throughout an intense fixture list. 

In the preliminary rounds, the team defeated Multimedia University (MMU) Melaka Team B with a 2–1 victory in the first match and a decisive 3–0 shutout in the second match. 

Moving into the quarter-finals, the squad overcame HELP University Team B in a close 2–1 encounter, before triumphing over Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) with another hard-fought 2–1 verdict in the semi-finals.

In a dramatic Grand Final against MMU Melaka Team A, the squad addressed the philosophical motion exploring whether home is a place where one can truly be oneself. 

Demonstrating depth, composure, and sharp rebuttals, APU Team A clinched a 2–1 victory to lift the national trophy.

Adding to the historic win, team members dominated the individual standings amongst debaters from all 20 participating institutions. 

Ng Wei Hao secured second place overall in the Top 10 Best Debaters rankings after claiming Best Debater honours in four separate matches. 

Meanwhile, Lean Zuo Yan earned third place overall in the rankings, earning Best Debater distinctions in two key fixtures during the tournament. 

Reflecting on their individual recognitions, both debaters expressed deep gratitude, noting that ranking in the top three across such a competitive national field held immense meaning and stood as a profound personal honour. 

The success was the culmination of a rigorous month-long preparation period. The team credited teammate Ng Wei Hao as the tactical backbone during preparation sessions, alongside invaluable coaching and strategic advice from APU alumnus Chow Lih Yang. 

Overcoming the demanding challenge of late-night brainstorming sessions and argument formulation required seamless teamwork and mutual encouragement. 

CLCS Debate Team Leader, Tan Se Kee highlighted that this award represents a historic first major breakthrough for the APU Debate Team, as the community had never captured a national championship title before. 

Although the team was represented on stage by four debaters, Tan emphasized that the achievement was made possible by the unwavering support of the entire debate family, including seniors, coaches, Team B members, and fellow debate peers. 

Looking ahead, APU Debate Team already set its sights on the upcoming Chinese Debate World Cup 2027 Malaysia Division, where they aim to carry this momentum forward and scale even greater heights on the competitive stage.