Fourteen countries have sent their brightest young minds to Malaysia for the second International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO) 2025, where the next generation of nuclear scientists will compete, collaborate, and explore peaceful applications of atomic technology. Hosted by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) in Bangi, this prestigious gathering represents far more than academic competition—it’s a testament to nuclear science’s growing role in addressing global challenges from healthcare to climate change.
International Nuclear Science Olympiad 2025 Brings Global Talent to Malaysia
On July 31, 2025, UKM officially launched the second edition of INSO, welcoming participants from across the globe in a celebration of scientific excellence and international cooperation. Moreover, the event showcases Malaysia’s growing commitment to peaceful nuclear advancement and scientific diplomacy.
Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), YB Dato’ Haji Mohammad Yusof Apdal, officiated the ceremony, emphasizing the critical importance of nuclear science in modern society. His presence underscored the Malaysian government’s strong support for nuclear education and international scientific collaboration.
Nuclear Science Powers Malaysia’s Development Goals
During his keynote address, Dato’ Haji Mohammad Yusof highlighted nuclear science’s impressive contributions to Malaysia’s national development across multiple sectors. Unlike many technologies with limited applications, nuclear science touches virtually every aspect of modern life.
“In Malaysia, nuclear science has contributed impressively to our development goals from medical imaging and cancer treatment to food safety and environmental monitoring via irradiation technology.
“Institutions such as the Malaysian Nuclear Agency, Atomic Energy Department, universities, and regulatory bodies have been working in tandem to promote research, training, and public awareness, always with a focus on safety and sustainability.
“Globally, organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) promote the peaceful use of nuclear technology to address energy needs, health care, water management, and climate change.
“Emerging innovations such as nuclear fusion, small modular reactors, and advanced nuclear medicine mark the future of this field,” he said.
Furthermore, the Deputy Minister’s remarks reflected Malaysia’s alignment with global nuclear safety standards and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s peaceful nuclear initiatives, demonstrating the country’s responsible approach to atomic technology development.
Beyond Competition: Building Trust Through Scientific Cooperation
Prof. Dr. Abdul Halim Abdul Gafor, UKM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and International Affairs, emphasized that INSO 2025 transcends traditional academic competitions. On the flip side of typical olympiads focused solely on individual achievement, this event prioritizes collaborative problem-solving and ethical scientific practice.
“INSO 2025 is not merely a competition but it is also a platform for unity, where diverse minds converge to address humanity’s greatest challenges.
“At UKM, we believe that science thrives not only on experimentation but also on shared knowledge and trust.
“Thus, INSO 2025 embodies these principles by bringing young talents together to solve global challenges through the lens of nuclear science,” he concluded.
Rigorous Selection Process Ensures Top-Tier Participation
Following its successful debut in the Philippines in 2024, INSO 2025 attracted exceptional participants who underwent meticulous selection processes and intensive training programs. Consequently, the olympiad cultivates a new generation of scientists and innovators with strong ethical foundations and a genuine spirit of global unity.
Each participating country implemented comprehensive screening procedures to identify students with outstanding aptitude in nuclear science fundamentals, ensuring that only the most dedicated and capable young scientists reached Malaysia’s competition venues.
Comprehensive Academic and Cultural Programming
Participants engage in diverse academic and cultural activities throughout the olympiad, creating a holistic educational experience that extends beyond traditional competition formats. These carefully designed programs include:
- Scientific assessments covering nuclear physics, radiation safety, and peaceful applications
- Knowledge-sharing forums where students present research projects and innovative ideas
- International networking opportunities fostering long-term collaborative relationships
- Cultural exchange activities promoting understanding between participating nations
Additionally, the event features nuclear research collaboration workshops where participants work together on real-world challenges, mirroring the international cooperation essential for addressing global issues through atomic science.
“Fuelling Ambition, Celebrating Excellence” Sets the Tone
This year’s olympiad theme, “Fuelling Ambition, Celebrating Excellence,” perfectly captures the event’s dual focus on inspiring individual achievement while celebrating collective scientific progress. The theme reflects organizers’ aspirations to inspire young scientists to innovate with integrity and passion, ensuring that future nuclear science developments prioritize human welfare and environmental sustainability.
Shaping Tomorrow’s Nuclear Science Leaders
INSO 2025 represents more than an academic competition—it’s an investment in humanity’s scientific future. By bringing together exceptional young minds from fourteen countries, the olympiad creates lasting networks that will shape international nuclear cooperation for decades to come. Moreover, participants leave with enhanced understanding of nuclear science’s peaceful applications and strengthened commitment to ethical scientific practice. As these talented students return to their home countries, they carry with them the collaborative spirit and technical expertise needed to address global challenges through responsible nuclear innovation.
