Two emerge top three overall champions in math olympiad
A GROUP of 65 students from Malaysia delivered an inspiring performance at the Singapore International Math Olympiad Challenge (Simoc) 2026.
Two of them, William Ong Wee Nian and Hu Jiashen, were named among the competition’s overall top three champions with both earning the prestigious title of overall second runner-up.
William is Grade 3 student from Cempaka International School Damansara Heights while Hu is in Grade 6 from Mont’Kiara International School.
Their achievement reflected the calibre, determination and mathematical excellence of Malaysia’s young talent, Singapore Maths + Olympiad (SMO) Malaysia said in a statement.
Throughout the five-day programme, participants competed in challenging mathematical contests while also engaging in collaborative activities and cultural exchanges with peers from across the globe.
Widely recognised as one of the world’s premier international mathematics competitions, Simoc goes beyond testing mathematical ability, SMO said.
While conventional mathematics competitions focus solely on individual performance, Simoc offers a distinctive format that challenges students in both individual and collaborative settings.
Participants first compete in the Math Olympiad Contest, where they solve rigorous mathematical problems independently, before taking part in two exciting team events.
Math Warrior and Math Master Mind are team rounds that require the participants to communicate effectively, think strategically under pressure and combine their mathematical strengths to solve problems.
Team Malaysia’s other achievements included 27 gold awards, 28 silver awards, 48 bronze awards and 12 honourable mentions.
A spokesperson for Team Malaysia said, “Watching our students stand proudly on the international stage was an incredibly emotional and rewarding moment.
“Their achievements are the result of hard work, determination and the unwavering support of their families and teachers.
“We are immensely proud of every student who wore the Malaysian flag with pride.
“Whether they returned home with a medal, a special award or invaluable experience, each of them is a champion in their own right.”
“More importantly, the experience serves as an inspiration for future generations of Malaysian students to pursue excellence, embrace challenges and believe that they, too, can stand proudly on the world stage,” the spokesperson added.
More than 2,200 students from over 40 countries took part in the challenge held at Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre.
