Malaysian Youth with Disabilities Achieve Landmark Victories at Global IT Challenge 2025 in Korea

TLDR

• A delegation of eight Malaysian students with disabilities secured multiple top honours at the Global IT Challenge for Youth with Disabilities (GITC) 2025 in Ulsan, Republic of Korea.
• The international competition, held from October 29-31, involved over 1,700 participants from 20 countries, testing skills crucial for the digital economy.
• Individual accolades include the Best e-Combination award for Muhammad Thaqiif bin Muhamad Zharif, who also won the Best e-Content category alongside three other Malaysian teammates.
• In addition to individual student success, Malaysia as a nation received the Special Contribution Award for its profound commitment to advancing digital inclusion for PWDs.

A formidable contingent of eight young Malaysian talents with disabilities has brought national honour to the forefront of the global stage, securing remarkable victories at the Global IT Challenge for Youth with Disabilities (GITC) 2025. The prestigious international competition, held in Ulsan, Republic of Korea, from October 29 to 31, serves as a testament to Malaysia’s burgeoning strength in digital innovation, inclusive education, and technological excellence. This inspiring performance marks one of the nation’s strongest showings at the GITC, reaffirming a national commitment to nurturing digital talent and empowering all individuals to thrive.

A Global Showcase of Digital Prowess

The Global IT Challenge 2025 is a highly respected international platform, co-hosted by the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare and LG Electronics. It brings together over 1,700 youths from 20 countries to test their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and technological skills in categories specifically designed to empower persons with disabilities (PWDs) for success in the digital economy.

The Malaysian delegation delivered an exceptional performance that captured international attention. Among the key highlights, Muhammad Thaqiif bin Muhamad Zharif clinched the coveted Best e-Combination award. Furthermore, in a powerful demonstration of collaborative strength, he also secured top honours in the Best e-Content category alongside his teammates: Lum Man Jun, Muhammad Syakir bin Zailani, and Muhammad Fahim bin Mohd Sofian.

Beyond these individual and team victories, Malaysia received the Special Contribution Award. This national-level recognition celebrates the country’s exceptional and consistent commitment to supporting and advancing the inclusion movement for its youth with disabilities, signifying that the nation’s progress is being acknowledged globally.

A Unified National Support System

The delegation’s success is the culmination of a robust national support ecosystem. The official flag-off ceremony, held at KLIA Terminal 1 on October 27, was a moment of national pride, led by key figures in Malaysia’s education and inclusivity spheres. These included Dr. Mohd Anuar bin Abdullah, Deputy Director (Instructional Development) at the Ministry of Education Malaysia, and Mr. Amirul Safuan Hj. Mohd Ishak, the Founder and CEO of AMEER SAFONE Inclusivity Academy. Mr. Amirul is also the visionary behind Aspirasi OKU 2026, a national movement redefining how Malaysia uplifts and celebrates its PWD community.

The send-off was a significant event, attended by representatives from seven State Education Departments (Selangor, Melaka, Terengganu, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan, Perak, and Pahang), alongside teachers, parents, school leaders, and Members of Parliament, all unified in their support.

Upon their triumphant return, the delegation was warmly welcomed at KLIA by Mr. Zainal bin Abas, the Deputy Director-General of Education (School Operations Sector), who commended the students for their determination, teamwork, and the honour they brought to Malaysia.

Reflecting on a “Zero to Hero” Journey

Stakeholders within the Malaysian education system have praised the achievement as a symbol of progress in inclusive education. Pn. Norhasnizam, Head of the Special Education Sector at JPN Selangor, remarked that the victory represents far more than just medals. “This achievement reflects the strength of collaboration across our education ecosystem… all committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to shine,” she stated. “We are proud to see our special education students proving that with the right support and guidance, they can go from zero to hero.”

Dr. Mohd Anuar also praised the foundational role of educators, families, and the Ministry’s unwavering support in fostering these inclusive digital opportunities. “This success belongs to the entire education ecosystem,” he commented. “The Ministry will continue strengthening inclusive digital learning pathways to ensure no child is left behind in the nation’s digital future.”