Pavit Coran, a 19-year-old Malaysian studying at the Multimedia University (MMU) in Malacca, was declared the champion of the English Speaking Union (ESU) International Public Speaking Competition held virtually on Friday (May 14), reported Malay Mail.
Pavit defeated 35 other participants from over 33 countries in the Grand Finals, said the English Speaking Union of Malaysia (ESUM) in a statement.
Pavin’s five-minute winning speech highlighted the increase of mental health issues worldwide and the need for government bodies to display more empathy towards it.
He also mentioned how the world could learn from BeFrienders KL, a non-profit organization headquartered in Malaysia that provides 24/7 emotional support to Malaysians who have a mental illness without worrying about being exposed or judged.
“I’m so grateful to be given this opportunity to represent my country and be chosen as the champion”, said Pavit upon the announcement of his win.
“It’s been so amazing to compete alongside speakers from all around the world”.
Towards the end of his speech, Pavit added that it was a “really fantastic experience” for him as he stayed up until 2 am due to the time difference between London and Malaysia.
This was the second time that Malaysia bagged the Best Speaker title at the annual ESU International Public Speaking Competition after Marina Tan in 2011.
ESUM chairman Tunku Dara Tunku Tan Sri Naquiah expressed her profound happiness at Pavit’s success, adding that he was deserving of the win and achieved it for Malaysia.
Sources: FB/ ESU Malaysia, Malay Mail
Editor: Raymond Chen
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
