The Grand STEM Challenge (GSC) 2025 made its biggest mark yet at INTI International College Penang on 23 August 2025, bringing together more than 2,000 students from 300 schools for a day of innovation, collaboration, and discovery. This year’s edition was the largest since the event’s inception six years ago.
Officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the flagship event showcased the creativity and problem-solving abilities of young talents through eight finalist challenges, three inter-school hackathons, seven interactive workshops, and a vibrant STEM Experience Festival designed to make learning both fun and engaging.
Group photo of students, educators, and industry partners at INTI International College Penang during the Grand STEM Challenge 2025, which brought together over 2,000 participants to celebrate innovation in STEM.
Students competed across a range of disciplines, including robotics, programming, mathematics, English, physics, chemistry, and biology, impressing audiences with their ingenuity and practical solutions.
In his speech, Chow Kon Yeow commended the Grand STEM Challenge for providing vital opportunities for students to explore and grow through STEM.
“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,” he said.
Chow added that the competition is more than just a contest, describing it as a movement that sparks imagination, tests ideas, and ignites 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 said.
He likened the challenge to 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,” Chow concluded.
Hemalatha Murugiah, Chief Executive of INTI International College Penang, also emphasised the importance of STEM in shaping future-ready graduates.
“By empowering students to explore STEM through engaging competitions and experiential learning, GSC 2025 has become a powerful platform for nurturing future-ready talent. We are proud to host such an impactful initiative that not only encourages innovation but also strengthens Penang’s position as a hub for education and technology. Events like this allow students to connect classroom knowledge with real-world challenges, which is crucial for their personal and professional growth,” she said.
The Grand STEM Challenge 2025 not only celebrated academic excellence but also fostered collaboration among schools, educators, and industry leaders, laying the foundation for the next generation of changemakers. Organisers are now looking ahead to expanding the challenge in 2026 to include regional participation, further broadening its reach and impact
(From left) Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin, and INTI International College Penang Chief Executive Hemalatha Murugiah observing a student presentation during the Grand STEM Challenge 2025.