Malaysia has achieved a remarkable milestone in international physics education at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) 2026 held in Bucaramanga, Colombia. For the first time in 15 years, the Malaysian team returned home with a gold medal, marking a proud moment for the nation.
Leading this historic achievement was Cheok Kang Ling, who secured Malaysia’s first IPhO gold medal since 2011. Her success is made even more significant by the fact that she is the first student from an independent Chinese school in Malaysia to attain this honour at the prestigious competition.
Malaysia’s outstanding performance extended beyond the gold medal. Gan Zhong Wen and Teh Jun Jie each earned bronze medals, while Tan Hong Zher and Tun Muhammad Syukri bin Tun Abdul Karim received Honourable Mentions. Together, the team demonstrated the strength of Malaysian talent and the growing excellence of science education in the country.
Behind these accomplishments lies a rigorous selection and training process led by the Malaysian Physics Olympic Committee (JKOFM) in collaboration with the Alumni of International Science Olympiad Malaysia (AMISO). Their efforts were supported by the Ministry of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and DISTED College.
For DISTED College, this success holds special significance. Several members of the national team participated in the OFM 2026 Training Camp hosted by DISTED earlier this year. Witnessing these young talents progress from intensive preparation to international recognition is a source of immense pride for the college community.
Congratulations to Cheok Kang Ling and the entire Malaysian team for making history and inspiring the next generation of scientists to aim higher and dream bigger.
Dr. Tan Fuyi
Senior Lecturer, School of Pre-University Studies
