(Bandar Seri Begawan, 17th) — Students from Chung Hwa Middle School, Brunei (CHMS) recently achieved outstanding results in the 2025 International Chemistry Quiz (ICQ), bringing honor to their school. This prestigious global event is organized by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute and has, since its launch in 1982, attracted over 100,000 students from 21 countries and regions.
It is understood that the International Chemistry Quiz originated from the Australian National Chemistry Quiz (ANCQ), which was upgraded and restructured in 2021. The competition aims to enhance students' comprehensive application of chemical knowledge through challenging questions.
This year’s competition required contestants to complete 30 questions within 60 minutes, testing their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations and solve practical problems.
This year, a total of 32 students from CHMS participated, with 18 excelling and winning awards: 1 High Distinction Award (top 10% in Asia), 7 Distinction Awards (top 30%), and 10 Credit Awards (top 50%). Awards are determined based on performance rankings of students in the same grade.
The ICQ is known for its innovative and curriculum-integrated questions, which are designed over approximately two years by teams of chemical education experts. The contest emphasizes the practical application of chemistry knowledge in everyday life, focusing on cultivating students’ analytical judgment and problem-solving abilities.
Student Hong Zhengui, who won the High Distinction Award, expressed his delight at achieving excellent results in his first attempt at the international quiz. He said: "Those challenging questions sparked a strong interest in me and gave me greater confidence to continue exploring and pushing my boundaries."
CHMS Principal Mrs. Hii Ngooi Lan commended the students for their efforts and achievements. She pointed out that the diligence and perseverance shown by CHMS students in international competitions not only embodies the spirit of "where there is a will, there is a way," but also proves the solid foundation of the school’s science education.
She also expressed gratitude to the Royal Australian Chemical Institute for organizing the ICQ, providing a high-level academic exchange platform for youth worldwide. She stated that the competition promotes international academic interactions and offers CHMS students a stage to showcase their knowledge and capabilities, further advancing and enhancing chemistry education at the school.