LABUAN, March 14 (Bernama) -- Labuan International School (LIS) marked a significant milestone with the successful organisation of the CBL-InnoLIS Conference 2026, bringing together young innovators from across Malaysia to present solutions to real-world challenges through the framework of Challenge Based Learning (CBL).
The conference, which concluded today at the school here, provided a platform for secondary school students nationwide to showcase innovation projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).
LIS principal Fadlin Aimuni said the CBL programme was first introduced at the school in 2016 as a pilot initiative aimed at encouraging students to engage in research-based learning while addressing real-world issues.
“The programme emphasises a broader view of student achievement, focusing not only on academic performance but also on students’ ability to apply knowledge creatively and develop practical solutions for global and community challenges,” she said to Bernama today.
She said that after nearly a decade of implementation within the school, this year marked the first time the CBL-InnoLIS Conference was opened to secondary school students from across the country, expanding its reach and creating a larger platform for young innovators to exchange ideas and collaborate.
The conference attracted 68 innovation project submissions from schools across 11 states in Malaysia, reflecting strong participation and growing interest among students in developing innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
Following a comprehensive evaluation process, 20 outstanding teams were selected as finalists.
Of the finalists, 10 teams competed in the online category on March 11, presenting their projects virtually and responding to questions from a panel of judges.
Another 10 teams competed in the physical category, culminating in the final presentations and closing ceremony held today at LIS, where participants showcased their prototypes and demonstrated how their innovations address real-world challenges.
She said the initiative reflects the school’s commitment to preparing students for future challenges through meaningful learning experiences.
“At Labuan International School, we believe learning should go beyond the classroom. Through Challenge Based Learning, students are encouraged to think deeply about real issues and explore solutions that can make a difference in the world,” she also said.
“The CBL-InnoLIS Conference provides a platform for young minds across Malaysia to share ideas, collaborate and develop the confidence to become problem solvers and responsible global citizens,” she added.
The conference also highlighted the importance of 21st-century learning skills such as creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and problem solving.
Outstanding teams were recognised with gold, silver and bronze awards, as well as certificates of achievement, medals and cash prizes.
The conference was organised with the support and collaboration of community partners, including LARIS Labuan, Junior Chamber International (JCI) Labuan and Toastmasters Labuan, reflecting a shared commitment to nurturing innovation, leadership and global awareness among young people.
--BERNAMA