A TOTAL of 24 Malaysian students, the majority of whom are from Penang, delivered an outstanding performance at the World Robot Games (WRG) 2025 held in Taipei, Taiwan, last year.
The young talents clinched an impressive 80 medals at one of the world’s largest robotics and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) competitions, marking a significant achievement for Malaysia on the international stage.
The prestigious event, which took place from Nov 25 to Dec 1, attracted more than 1,000 participants from 10 countries, including Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia.
State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu said the students from Tamil schools and national secondary schools demonstrated exceptional talent, resilience and determination throughout the competition.
“Their achievements not only exceeded expectations but also surpassed their performance from the previous year.
“Every student returned home with at least one medal in their respective category, which truly reflects their dedication, discipline and hard work,” he said.
Sundarajoo, who is also the chairman of the Penang Tamil Schools Special Committee, expressed deep pride in the students’ success and emphasised the importance of nurturing young talent, particularly in robotics, technology and innovation.
“My responsibility is to continue strengthening the quality of Tamil education, including expanding access to STEM and global technology.
“When our children dare to dream big, our nation moves forward.
“This achievement is not only a source of pride for the Tamil community, but for all Malaysians. It proves what our students can accomplish when they are given the right opportunities,” he added.
For many of the participants, the competition was a transformative experience.
One of them, 16-year-old Nishant Ravinderan from SMK Methodist Boys’ School (MBS) in Datok Keramat, said the event marked his first participation in an international robotics competition.
“I am still in disbelief, but I am very happy with myself for pushing my limits, especially when the competition was extremely intense.
“I hope I can maintain this level of performance for this year’s edition, which will be held in Japan,” he told Buletin Mutiara, after winning a champion medal for Malaysia.
An appreciation ceremony was held at Bayview Hotel in George Town today, graced by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Also present were state MIC chairman Datuk J. Dhinagaran and Syscore Sdn Bhd director Kalitazan Gannesa.
Chow congratulated the students, describing their success as both meaningful and inspiring.
“At this meaningful ceremony, we celebrate the achievements of 22 SJKT students in Penang who have brought honour to the state and the nation through their remarkable accomplishments on the international stage.
“This success not only makes their families and schools proud, but also proves that Penang’s children possess tremendous potential in technology, innovation and robotics,” he said.
Chow praised the students’ perseverance, discipline, patience and courage in challenging themselves globally, adding that their achievements showed excellence knows no boundaries of age, educational stream or background.
“Their success also reflects the values of teamwork, discipline, creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills which are qualities that are essential for the future,” he said.
According to Chow, robotics is no longer a co-curricular activity but an integral part of the STEM education ecosystem.
“This forms the foundation for developing highly skilled human capital in line with the Penang2030 vision, which aims to position Penang as a smart, innovative and competitive state,” he added.
When asked about Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent announcement on the RM50 million allocation to upgrade SJKT nationwide, Chow welcomed the move.
“Yes, I welcome the announcement. Based on Penang’s experience since 2008, we have observed that SJKT schools do require assistance to upgrade their basic facilities.
“With this allocation, schools can improve infrastructure, furniture, teaching equipment and learning materials to create a more conducive and comfortable learning environment for both students and teachers.
“This is also a recognition of the longstanding struggle of Tamil schools in the country, and the allocation will certainly help enhance facilities when utilised effectively.
“It further acknowledges that Tamil schools have contributed significantly to national talent development and the country’s talent pipeline.
“We hope that SJKT will receive even greater support in the coming years,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Siew Chia En