Unexpected Twist: Debate Contest Canceled as Mall and University Pull Venue Bookings with Democratic Judges

A secondary school debating competition has faced cancellation after two venues pulled their bookings. Initially set to take place at Citywalk shopping center in Tsuen Wan, the event was scrapped due to "urgent repairs." The organizer, Zi3Sin6 Debate, announced the cancellation on Instagram, expressing regret over the situation and thanking everyone involved for their understanding.

After losing the Citywalk venue, the debate group sought to relocate to the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). However, CUHK withdrew its booking as well, citing the need for more information about the event. This caused deep disappointment among participants who were preparing for the final.

Prominent figures from the pro-democracy camp, such as Emily Lau and former Civic Party members Audrey Eu and Alan Leong, were scheduled to be judges. Lau’s Democratic Party, marking three decades as Hong Kong’s largest opposition group, is reportedly moving towards disbandment.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time venues have canceled events for maintenance or repairs. Earlier this year, CUHK also withdrew a venue for a Greenpeace seminar due to "urgent maintenance." This raises questions about ongoing political tensions affecting public events in Hong Kong.

The group has reflected on the challenges posed to student engagement in civic activities amid these hurdles. As more events are forced online or canceled altogether, some students express frustration on social media. They worry that opportunities for public speaking and debate, critical skills for future leadership, are slipping away.

This pattern reflects a broader societal trend. According to a recent survey by the Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute, over 60% of young people feel that political engagement is less accessible now compared to previous years. As the landscape evolves, activities that encourage open dialogue and debate appear to be increasingly undermined, sparking concern about the future of civic participation in Hong Kong.

The cancellation of this competition exemplifies the hurdles faced by educators and students in promoting democratic values and public discourse. With events now often forced online, the challenge lies in maintaining engagement while navigating these shifting waters.

Learn more about civic engagement in Hong Kong and the importance of debate in education.

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Alan Leong,Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK),Civic Party,Democratic Party,Sino Group,Tsuen Wan