The Abqary Team from the Faculty of Islamic Studies (FDI) has once again achieved an outstanding accomplishment by winning the Arabic debate competition during the Ittihadu Tholabah Al-Lughoh Al-Arobiyah (ITHLA) Arabic Language Camp, held on Sunday, November 21, 2021. Represented by Komaruddin, Teguh Satria P., and Rizka Venusia B., the Abqary team demonstrated their excellence. This victory is not their first; winning has become a norm for them.

The secret behind their success lies in consistent practice, which they credit as the key to their achievements. “We must be consistent in training because through practice, we can improve and become even better, sharper, just like a dull knife that becomes razor-sharp when continuously honed. Additionally, we want Abqary to maintain its reputation as a formidable team feared by competitors. Historically, Abqary has always been respected both nationally and internationally. To continue being respected, we must constantly enhance ourselves through training,” explained Komaruddin, one of the debate participants who frequently wins Arabic debate competitions.

A third-semester student, Komaruddin shared that what he enjoys most about practice sessions is being able to shout and express emotions in Arabic. “During debates, emotions can get intense, and that helps me suddenly become fluent. So, practicing debates acts as a stimulus for improving one of the Arabic language skills, namely speaking (kalam),” he said.

In addition to having a strong vocabulary and competency (kafa’ah), staying informed about current and trending issues is crucial. “Of course, we have to read a lot about the latest, hottest, sharpest, and most trustworthy news,” Komaruddin noted.

He added that challenges in training and competitions can be overcome with consistency and a willingness to improve. The team faced significant challenges during the debate competitions, as topics were often given on short notice. “Sometimes, we only get the motion 30 minutes before the competition starts, and occasionally just 15 minutes before. So, we have to build our case very quickly,” Komaruddin said. However, he finds this spontaneity exciting and enjoys it as a personal benchmark for his language skills.

Komaruddin mentioned that they particularly enjoy debate motions that are debatable and balanced, ensuring no side has an undue advantage. For Komaruddin, Abqary has been the first platform that trained him to become an Arabic debater. He admitted that he did not come from a pesantren background, so his language skills were developed after joining FDI and Abqary.

Though initially lacking confidence, his strong determination and courage eventually led him to excel in Arabic debates. “The achievements we have made at Abqary, we hope, will continue indefinitely, so that the name Abqary will always shine,” he said on behalf of his teammates.

(FDI Journalism Team: Nurfadilah Lubis)