IMU Science Discovery Challenge: A Decade of Inspiring Young Scientists

This year marks a significant milestone for the IMU Science Discovery Challenge, as we celebrate ten years of fostering a love for science among pre-university and secondary school students. Since its inception, the challenge has been dedicated to creating awareness about the wonders of science and igniting the curiosity of young minds. Over the past decade, it has grown from a local competition into a prestigious event, now attracting participants from across Malaysia and even from overseas in two of the Challenge’s categories: Secondary School Category and Pre-University Category.

The 2024 edition was nothing short of remarkable, with an astounding , participants competing online in the initial round for a chance to claim a spot in the Grand Finale. This year’s challenge drew participants and attendees from every corner of Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Perlis, Penang, Johor, and Sarawak.

Out of this vast pool of passionate young scientists, only the top 5.5% emerged victorious, securing their spots in the ultimate showdown held at the IMU Bukit Jalil campus on 28 September 2024. A total of 200 contestants from each category were invited to the campus to battle for the top honors in this year’s event, showcasing their scientific knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

The Grand Finale at IMU Bukit Jalil saw the contestants who made it to the final stage eagerly showcasing their knowledge and skills, competing in the challenge that tests their understanding of physics, biology, chemistry, and more. As these young minds battled for the top spots, their passion and enthusiasm for science were evident, serving as a testament to the success of this initiative over the past decade.

The day was also filled with a variety of activities and a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) competition. IMU also showcased its wide range of programmes through interactive booths and workshops, giving students a hands-on experience with fields such as health sciences, digital health, and biomedical sciences. This allowed participants and attendees to gain insights into potential future career paths and discover the real-world applications of the science they have been studying.

In addition to these activities, a seminar titled “The Future of Biotechnology: A Decade in Review” was presented by Jason Ng Chin Aik, Director and Vice President of Manufacturing at Cell AgriTech.

Participants found the seminar engaging, offering valuable insights into the future of biotechnology and potential career opportunities in the field.

As the Science Discovery Challenge celebrates its 10th anniversary, it stands as a beacon of inspiration for students across Malaysia and beyond.

The challenge continues to grow-in-size and scope, evolving with the times to include online and face-to-face formats, making it accessible to wider audiences. This adaptability has been key to its enduring success, especially during times when physical gatherings were limited.

Professor Emerita Datuk Asma binti Ismail, IMU University’s Vice Chancellor whom herself is a veteran of many STEM-related discussions at Ministry of Higher Education, clearly stated after presenting the prizes to the winners that, “I hope that their exposure to the SDC competition can influence their decision to pursue STEM in their tertiary education and future careers. Since 9 out 10 jobs in the future will be STEM related, the country needs more graduates in science and technology”.

Looking ahead, the Science Discovery Challenge aims to continue pushing boundaries, nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. With every passing year, the challenge not only strengthens its role in shaping the minds of tomorrow but also fosters a lifelong love of learning and exploration among students.

As a pilot exercise, the organising committee consisting of A/Prof Wong Chiew Yen, Dr Koh Rhun Yian, Prof BY Chin, together Prof Anna Ling, invited one of IMU’s Industry Graduate Trainee Partner (GTP), Cell Agritech, to exhibit the process of cultivating meat from stem cells to the participants.

Jason Ng, the company’s Vice President of Operations shared his views on the SDC, “Attending IMU University’s Science Discovery Challenge had a profoundly positive impact on both me and my team. We were thoroughly impressed by the students’ abilities and the level of innovation they demonstrated. The event highlighted just how much talent and creativity is emerging from the next generation, making us even more excited about future collaborations”.

Based on Jason’s positive testimonial and the participating students gaining awareness and learning about impact of STEM and biotechnology in Malaysia, the SDC organising committee will be inviting more of IMU’s GTP partners to showcase their industries as well as career opportunities for the next generation of scientists.

“These students will now be able to not only see how basic theory learned in the classroom get translated and applied in Malaysian STEM industries, but job security is also not too far away,” added the Chairperson, Prof BY Chin.

Here are the winners from the secondary school and pre-university categories.