Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azza Jauhar Ahmad Tajuddin, English Language Centre

The English Language Centre of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has successfully organized the recent ASEAN Olympiad Championship 2025 that brought together 491 outstanding students from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia in a vibrant celebration of intellect, creativity, and regional solidarity. 

The championship was organized in collaboration with Persatuan Kampungstay dan Homestay Negeri Terengganu, Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Terengganu, Faculty of Computer Science and Mathematics, Kelab HIMMAT UMT, UNDP Malaysia, MOTAC Terengganu, Politeknik Hulu Terengganu, PDRM, and Pejabat Daerah Kuala Nerus. This collaboration reflected a strong partnership between UMT, government agencies, and community organizations in supporting youth empowerment and regional cooperation.

Held on 1-2 October 2025 at UMT and Dewan Jubli Perak, Kuala Nerus, the event aimed to inspire young minds, strengthen ASEAN unity, and foster cross-cultural understanding through academic excellence and innovation.

The competition was divided into two main categories. Category A featured the Junior High School Group for students aged 14 to 15 years old, while Category B, the Senior High School Group, was open to students aged 16 to 17 years old.

All participants took part in two compulsory Olympiad tests—the Mathematics Olympiad Test (30 minutes) and the English Proficiency Test (30 minutes). These core assessments tested problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, and language mastery under timed conditions, setting a solid academic foundation for the rest of the competition.

In addition to the mandatory tests, participants selected one optional competition that best reflected their talents and interests. These included Storytelling, English Speech, Arabic Speech, or the innovative ROBO SOMO Competition. Each category encouraged participants to express their ideas, creativity, and technical skills in meaningful and inspiring ways.

The short talks and performances were centered around four thought-provoking themes that reflected the vision and challenges of ASEAN:

1. The Future of ASEAN – exploring opportunities, challenges, and the crucial role of youth in shaping the region’s future.
2. Tourism in Your Country – celebrating national attractions, cultural highlights, and the impact of tourism on local communities.
3. Cultural Heritage – emphasizing the preservation of traditions and values in a rapidly globalizing world.
4. Environmental Conservation – promoting awareness and practical actions toward sustainability.

Among the standout moments was a performance by Qiara Asqa, 14, who captivated the audience by incorporating violin playing into her Indonesian cultural storytelling performance, adding what many described as “a wow factor” to her presentation. 

“Her storytelling lifted the entire atmosphere,” said Rofet Nisa, a participant from Cambodia. “It was creative, emotional, and unforgettable.”

Another highlight was the public talk by Aiman Faris Azizul Fadzli from SM Kompleks Gong Badak, whose fluent and convincing delivery on The Future of ASEAN drew praise for its motivational and dynamic tone. 

“He spoke with confidence and passion,” said Christina Winata from Indonesia. “His talk was powerful, full of energy, and truly hyped the audience.”