IN a moment of bittersweet triumph, a dedicated student proudly brought home the bronze medal from the prestigious International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) 2024, held in Isfahan, Iran, this past July.
The achievement carries even greater significance as it honours the memory of his father, who passed away last year from heart disease.
Carson Tai, 19, from SMJK Chung Ling, attributed his success to his late father’s unwavering belief in him and his constant encouragement to excel in his studies.
“He was my hero. He always reminded me that hard work and perseverance would pay off. His words kept me going, even when times were tough,” Carson shared.
“I also dedicate this achievement to my mother, my source of strength, and my Physics teacher for his invaluable guidance,” he told Buletin Mutiara.
In addition, Tai expressed his gratitude to several key individuals and organisations who supported his journey: “I would like to thank Mr Duncan Lim, my Form Six teacher; Mr Goh Kok Thye and the Chung Ling Alumni Association for their continuous support; Puan Chin Mai Ying, my trainer at the training camp; and the Malaysia Alumni of International Science Olympiads (AMISO) for providing the crucial training that helped me prepare for the competition.”
Winning the bronze medal at the IPhO 2024 is not only a personal triumph but also a powerful tribute to the lasting influence of a parent’s love and support.
Tai, the eldest of three siblings, shared that his Physics teacher had encouraged the entire class (about 10 students) to participate in the national selection test for the Physics Olympiad.
Out of those who competed nationwide, Tai was one of five students chosen to represent Malaysia at the IPhO 2024 from July 21 to 29.
However, one of the team members withdrew at the last minute, leaving four to compete. Tai was the sole representative from Penang, while the other three hailed from Selangor.
The IPhO 2024 brought together secondary school students from 82 countries, challenging individual participants in two main components – experiment and theory.
Tai and his teammates underwent intense preparation to master both sections, which tested their scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills under rigorous standards.
“I did not expect to be selected. The entire journey was exciting and rewarding,” he said.
In addition to Tai’s bronze medal, Soh Tze Jun and Muhammad Adam Zachry Mohd Ali received honourable mentions for their performances. Unfortunately, Lau Zheng Hong did not advance to the final rankings.
Tai shared that he dedicated two to three hours each day to preparing for the competition.
“In addition to paying close attention in class, I sought guidance from seniors who had previously participated in the Olympiad.
“I also practised extensively by working through past years’ questions,” he said.
Tai expressed his hopes of qualifying for the IPhO 2025, which would mark his final opportunity to compete.
When asked what advice he had for younger students interested in taking the national selection test for the Physics Olympiad, Tai said, “Don’t be afraid to try. Don’t let fear hold you back. Anything is possible, but you have to take that first step.”
Tai hopes to secure a scholarship to pursue a degree in computer science or electrical engineering in Singapore after completing his Form Six studies.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Law Suun Ting and courtesy of contributors