All-Asian Debating Championships

JAKARTA (JP): Two teams from the English Debating Society (EDS) of the University of Indonesia are currently taking part in the sixth All-Asian Inter-Varsity Debating Championships in Bangkok.

Achmad N. Sukarsono of the university's school of political science said the Indonesian team was one of various teams from 10 countries, including the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia, joining the eight-day championships, which began on May 10.

"It is our hope that the Indonesian teams win at the championships," said Achmad, one of five EDS founding members.

The first team is composed of computer science student Permata Harahap and law students Ria Nuri Dharmawan and Dian Shinto Ekapuri. The second is composed of Judithia Wirawan from the psychology faculty, Adhi Poetra Al Hosen from the economics faculty and law student Firliana Purwanti.

The main sponsor of the teams' trip is consulting company Prasetio Utomo-Arthur Andersen.

Other sponsorships and donations were given by the rectorate of the University of Indonesia, the Parents' Association of the School of Law, The Jakarta Post and Jakarta International School.

Indonesia participated the first time in the All-Asian championships in May 1996. (ylt)