THE Grand STEM Challenge (GSC) 2025, held today at INTI International College Penang, brought together 2,000 students from 300 schools, marking its largest edition since its inception six years ago.
Penang Math Platform general manager Johnny Ong said the challenge has grown into the state’s biggest platform for nurturing young innovators.
“Essentially, the Grand STEM Challenge is a school-based competition for both primary and secondary students.
“It features project-based contests across a wide range of disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, robotics, programming, mathematics, and English.
“Students are tasked with applying what they learn in textbooks to real-world scenarios, while combining creativity with logical problem-solving skills,” Ong said during his address, before the event was officially launched by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Also present were Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng and INTI International College Penang chief executive officer Hemalatha Murugiah.
Ong highlighted that this year’s edition not only emphasises science, technology, and engineering, but also focuses on two critical skills, namely mathematics and English.
“In STEM, everything revolves around logical thinking, which is how students calculate, communicate, and share their ideas and innovations with the world.
“Through GSC 2025, we aim to empower the next generation to think critically, solve problems creatively, and express their vision confidently,” he said.
It is learnt this year’s programme features eight finalist challenges, three inter-school hackathons, seven interactive workshops, and a hands-on STEM Experience Festival designed to make learning both fun and engaging.
Chow, in his speech, praised Penang Math Platform for its commitment to sustaining the competition over the years.
“Earlier this year, Penang unfortunately missed the chance to send a team to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), often referred to as the ‘Science Olympics,’ the world’s largest science fair where young minds present ideas that could change the world.
“We did not miss it because our students lacked talent, but perhaps because we need more platforms like today’s Grand STEM Challenge to inspire and prepare them to compete globally. Without opportunities like this, we miss our chance to shine on the world stage,” Chow said.
Chow stressed that GSC is more than just a contest; it is a platform to spark imagination, test ideas, and ignite ambition.
“It’s not only about winning prizes. It’s about planting a spark inside these students — a spark that may one day carry them to the ISEF, or even beyond,” he added.
Chow likened the challenge to a movement, keeping the STEM spirit alive much like the Olympic flame, symbolising continuity and resilience.
“Penang’s success has always been built on talent, innovation, and resilience.
“As we move forward into the era of Industry 4.0, let us continue investing in STEM education, nurturing future talent, and building a Penang that leads in technology and sustainability,” he concluded.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Law Suun Ting