JOHOR BAHRU, Apr 26 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) continues to demonstrate excellence in communication and leadership as two members of the UTM Toastmasters Club achieved outstanding success at the Division G International Speech and Evaluation Contests 2025-2026, District 102 of Toastmasters International.
Dr. Rozana Alik, a Senior Lecturer from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering (FKE), secured first place in the International Speech Category, marking a significant milestone in her Toastmasters journey. Her compelling delivery and impactful message distinguished her among strong competitors from across the division.
Adding to the celebration, Yong Zhi Yuan, a PhD student from the Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), earned second place in the Evaluation Category, showcasing his sharp analytical skills and ability to deliver insightful and engaging feedback.
Both winners have demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the competition season. At the club level contest held on 12 April at Seminar Room 3, Sultanah Zanariah Library (PSZ), UTM, Dr. Rozana and Yong Zhi Yuan each emerged as champions in their respective categories. They continued their winning momentum at the Area G2 contest on 18 April in Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, Johor Bahru, securing top positions that advanced them to the division stage.
The Division G contest, held at 42 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Bahru, gathered top-performing contestants who had advanced through rigorous club- and area-level competitions across several Toastmasters clubs under Division G, District 102. The event featured highly competitive participants with diverse professional and academic backgrounds, each demonstrating exceptional public speaking, critical thinking, and evaluation skills. Competing against experienced speakers and evaluators from multiple areas, the achievements of UTM representatives became even more significant, reflecting not only their dedication and perseverance throughout the contest journey but also the high standard of communication excellence cultivated within the UTM Toastmasters Club.
These accomplishments highlight not only individual excellence but also the strength of the UTM Toastmasters Club in nurturing confident communicators and leaders. The success of Dr. Rozana and Yong Zhi Yuan reflects UTM’s Mission in developing global talents who excel academically, professionally, and socially. Their achievements also align closely with one of the four pillars of distinctive eminence under UTM ASCEND 2030, namely Global Talent, which focuses on attracting and developing learners into future-ready professionals equipped with global competencies, leadership qualities, and effective communication skills. The achievements demonstrated at the division-level contest exemplify the importance of communication excellence and critical thinking in preparing graduates and academics to thrive on the global stage.
UTM congratulates both winners and wishes Dr. Rozana Alik continued success as she advances to the next level of competition, representing Division G at the District 102 Annual Conference 2026 on 15 to 17 May 2026 at Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa, Johor.
