On 24 June, 2025, the Malaysian Brain Bee Challenge (MBBC) 2025 Zone J Semi-Final was hosted by the Human Biology Department of IMU University’s School of Medicine. Inspiring interest and fostering excellence in brain science among Malaysian secondary school students is the goal of this national neuroscience competition.

Bringing together bright young minds for an inspiring morning of academic discovery and intellectual challenge, the event marked a significant milestone in our dedication to STEM education and public engagement.

The Zone J Final was held at IMU University on 16 May, 2025, after two preparatory workshops were held by the Human Biology Department on  3 and 14 May, 2025. Participants gained the fundamental knowledge and self-assurance necessary to compete at a high-level competition thanks to these sessions.

In partnership with the International Brain Bee (IBB), the Malaysian Brain Bee Challenge (MBBC) is a national neuroscience contest for high school students. It assesses students’ knowledge of neuroanatomy, brain functions, neurological disorders, and neuroscience research.

MBBC has developed into one of the most prominent pre-university neuroscience events in Malaysia, with over 1,300 students from 13 different zones taking part. The national champion will advance to the IBB 2025 World Championship, which will take place virtually from 7-12 November 2025, in conjunction with the Neuroscience 2025 conference in San Diego, California.

Zone J’s semi-final round was hosted by IMU University. Five students from SMK (P) Pudu, Kuala Lumpur, made it to the semi-finals following the preliminary rounds and online zone-level competitions:

• Chew Ying Jia (J005)
• Yi Goh Hui (J004)
• Xuen Qing Leong (J011)
• Yap Si (J002)
• Zarmeen Hadia (J013)

These bright young brains participated in a closed-book, proctored session covering advanced neuroscience topics on campus at IMU from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Zarmeen Hadia

Joining the Neuroscience MBBC Quiz was something I did out of pure curiosity, but I ended up learning so much more than I expected. Even without formal classes, it showed me how much we can achieve when we stay curious and passionate. It pushed me to explore beyond textbooks and made me realise how fascinating the brain truly is. Like Benjamin Franklin Said, “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest”.

The knowledge we’ve gained throughout the session truly formed the foundation for this journey. Concepts that once seemed complex in the Neuroscience textbook became tools of insight learning with real-world application and how every bit of understanding. Brings us one step closer to becoming future healthcare professions. The journey taught me more than I expected, making it to the semifinals showed me that it’s not always about having all the answers, but about always being willing to try— it’s about growing, reflecting and staying curious. Ivern Ball once said: “ Knowledge is power. But enthusiasm pulls the switch.”

I’m grateful for the opportunity, and motivated now more than ever to strive for excellence. This event didn’t just test what we know— it sparked passion and showed that even as students, we’re capable of pushing boundaries. If you’re slightly even curious, take that step— you might end up surprising yourself too.

Yi Goh Hui

Participating in the MBBC (Malaysian Brain Bee Challenge) at IMU ignited my passion for neuroscience. The competition featured well-equipped facilities and smooth-running computers, allowing me to concentrate fully without any distractions. The professors thoughtfully provided timely snacks and beverages, helping me stay focused even under pressure. After the competition, a guided tour of the library and laboratory deepened my appreciation for IMU’s scholarly environment and research capabilities. This experience reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing science.

Xuen Qing Leong

Joining the MBBC quiz helped me realise how much I’ve actually learnt in class. It wasn’t just about memorising facts, I also had to understand the concepts and apply them under pressure. It showed me how important teamwork and communication are. I feel like this experience has prepared me better for future group projects.

Jie Yap Si

This programme helped me learn how to effectively manage my time between its activities and my studies. Furthermore, it provided a deeper insight into biology than what is typically covered in school, making it a truly special experience for me. I am very grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this programme.

Kang Kooi Li
School Counsellor
SMK (P) Pudu

The MBBC provided an exceptional platform for our students to explore the field of neuroscience beyond the boundaries of the standard curriculum. They were able to engage with complex scientific concepts in a way that was intellectually stimulating and deeply inspiring. Many of them shared how the competition helped them understand the real-world relevance of what they had previously only encountered in textbooks. It nurtured their curiosity, honed their critical thinking, and strengthened their appreciation for the  human brain and its complexities. 

 From a counselling perspective, I observed significant growth in their confidence, communication skills, and ability to work under pressure. The competition environment encouraged discipline, time management, and teamwork — qualities that will undoubtedly benefit them in their academic and future professional pursuits. 

 The well-organised structure of the competition, complemented by IMU’s excellent facilities and warm hospitality, created a supportive yet challenging atmosphere. The inclusion of guided tours and engagement with IMU’s academic environment broadened their perspectives and instilled a genuine appreciation for research and the pursuit of  scientific excellence. 

As the Human Biology Department’s faculty member and Zone J Coordinator, I am honoured to see these young students’ enthusiasm and promise. They were able to develop and establish a connection with neuroscience by hosting the semi-finals at IMU. We take pride in our contribution to the scientific future of Malaysia.

Zone J Coordinator, MBBC 2025, Dr Mohammed Irfan Abdul Malick Sahib

IMU’s involvement in MBBC is a reflection of our continuous goal to:

• Encourage the next generation to become more interested in neuroscience.
• Boost our university’s involvement in communities and schools.
• Encourage Malaysia’s national goal of developing STEM talent.

IMU demonstrated its strengths in outreach, research culture, and science education as the host university.

We would like to sincerely thank:

• Prof. Sharifah Sulaiha Syed Aznal, The School of Medicine’s Dean, for her inspirational assistance
• Ms Ayesha and the Marketing Division for their outstanding outreach and coordination
• The committed educators at SMK (P) Pudu, particularly Ms Kang Kooi Li, for serving as the students’ mentors
• The academic staff and student volunteers in the Human Biology Department for ensuring that the event runs smoothly.
• Muhammad Zulfadli Mehat (UPM) and Associate Professor Dr. Anwar Norazit (UM), the national MBBC leadership, for their inspiration and strategic guidance