JOHOR BARU: Primary school pupil Wan Harriz Wan Abdul Qayyum has brought international honours to Malaysia after placing first in the qualifier round of a prestigious English language competition in Qatar.
The Year Four pupil from SK Tasek Utara outperformed 13 international competitors to secure top spot in the Play-Off Qualifier Round of the Hippo English The Contest 2026, held from Aug 2 to 9.
Johor Education and Information Committee Chairman Dr Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali praised the young student's achievement, noting that his success highlights the impact of local educational initiatives.
“This is a proud moment for Malaysia and Johor," Dr Muhammad Naqib said in a Facebook post on Thursday (Aug 13). "What makes it even more meaningful is that Wan Harriz’s school is part of the Sekolah Rintis Bangsa Johor (SRBJ) initiative, which emphasises English language mastery."
Launched last year, the SRBJ initiative incorporates digital learning while bolstering student proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The qualifier is part of Hippo English Without Borders, an annual global competition for students aged six to nine spanning over 70 countries.
With his victory, Wan Harriz advances to the World Finals in Spoleto, Italy, scheduled for October. Dr Muhammad Naqib confirmed the Johor state government will provide financial and logistical support for the boy and his family.
Competitors from Saudi Arabia and Kyrgyzstan claimed second and third places, respectively.
Another Johor pupil, Eshant Ashvik Shashidara from SK Infant Jesus Convent Johor Baru, also represented Malaysia in the round, finishing in a respectable fifth place.
Dr Muhammad Naqib extended his appreciation to the teachers and parents whose support contributed to the students' impressive performances.
