Topic I

It is the year 1964, one year since the creation of Malaysia. Yet, the much-awaited merger has not been smooth. Numerous disputes have broken out between the Federal Government in Kuala Lumpur led by Tunku Abdul Rahman, and the state government in Singapore led by Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew; regarding issues such as but not limited to economic contribution, elections and racial tensions. The situation is further worsened by Indonesia’s constant military incursions under Sukarno’s ‘Konfrontasi’ Policy. Will Singapore secede from the union, or will a stronger Malaysia emerge? Delegates, that is up to you to decide.

Topic II

The Maria Hertogh riots began on 11 December 1950 in Singapore after a court decided that a child who had been raised by Muslims should be returned to her biological parents who were Catholic. A protest by outraged Muslims escalated into a riot when images were published showing 13-year-old Maria Hertogh (or Bertha Hertogh) kneeling before a statue of the Virgin Mary. Riots in Singapore lasted until noon on 13 December 1950. Eighteen people were killed and 173 injured. Many properties were also damaged.