PM Anwar Hails National Science Challenge 2026 Winners, Urges More Youth To Drive Innovation

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim celebrated the winners of the National Science Challenge (NSC) 2026 at a special meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya yesterday.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) said in a statement today that the meeting gave the winners a platform to share their experiences and achievements.

It added that the meeting also highlighted the younger generation's potential to apply scientific knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to address real-world challenges.

“During the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of Malaysia strengthening its innovation-based economy by encouraging more youth to explore, question, experiment, and generate science, technology and innovation (STI) solutions,” the statement said.

Sabah Tshung Tsin Secondary School was crowned NSC 2026 champion, while Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tsung Wah, Perak emerged as runner-up, and SMK Agama Jerlun, Kedah secured third place. SMK Desa Petaling, Kuala Lumpur and SMK Tapu, Terengganu placed fourth and fifth respectively.

Also celebrated was M. Lakshanyaa from SMK Convent (M) Bukit Mertajam, Penang, who received the Best Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Communicator Award, while Foo Xylyn from SMK Chung Hwa, Kelantan, received the Best Early Stage Participant Award.

The champion and runner-up teams, along with both award recipients, will participate in a scientific study tour to Japan from Oct 4 to 10. The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) sponsors the tour under the Sakura Science High School Program (SSHP).

“MOSTI remains committed to strengthening STEM education, expanding opportunities for youth to explore science and innovation, and nurturing talent capable of contributing to the nation's development and progress in line with the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy,” the statement read.

In the same statement, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang said the NSC plays a crucial role in giving the younger generation early exposure and sparking interest in STEM as a learning and career path.

The NSC, organised by the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM), is a premier national STEM competition for Malaysian students aged 13 to 16.

Meanwhile, ASM president and Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Adviser to the Prime Minister and the Nation, Datuk Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeen, said the NSC encourages students to build the capacity to evaluate issues critically.

He added that the NSC tests evidence-based ideas and fosters an understanding that solving problems requires continuous trial, evaluation, and improvement.

-- BERNAMA