Students from computing, financial technology and actuarial studies programmes demonstrated the strength of APU’s multidisciplinary mathematical education by securing the team championship, top individual honours and multiple awards at the International-National Mathematics Competition 2026.

Mathematics whizzes from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) have brought pride to the University after emerging as award winners at the International-National Mathematics Competition (I-NMC) 2026. 

Representing different academic programmes, the APU students secured the Champion title in a group-based category, alongside several individual accolades. Their achievements reflected the University’s commitment to strengthening mathematical competency as a fundamental pillar of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

Held on 20 June 2026 at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman’s (UTAR) Sungai Long Campus, the competition brought together talented students from colleges and universities to tackle challenging activities that tested mathematical knowledge, analytical reasoning, teamwork, speed and endurance.

Tang Dao Mian Crowned Top Overall Performer

Leading APU’s impressive performance was Tang Dao Mian, a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology with a specialism in Financial Technology (FinTech) student. 

Already recognised as a frequent winner in mathematics-related competitions, Tang received the “Iron Math Trophy” as the best overall individual performer nationally. 

He was also presented with the prestigious joint special award, the “UTTU Trophy”, after achieving the highest overall score in the competition. The trophy was jointly awarded by the competition organisers, UTAR, Malaysia, and Tunghai University, Taiwan. 

According to APU’s mathematics educators, Tang is an accomplished all-rounder with strong capabilities in statistics, discrete mathematics, calculus, number theory, linear algebra and advanced mathematical concepts. He also possesses remarkable speed, mental agility and accuracy when solving complex mathematical problems.

Teamwork Secures Mathketeers Championship

The competition featured three main categories: Category X – Mathketeers, a group-based competition; Category Y – Theory of Everything, an individual competition; and Category Z – Running Math, which also assessed individual performance.

Tang joined Desmond Yong Jia Jiang and Hein Htet Soe, both Foundation Programme in Computing and Technology students, to compete in Category X – Mathketeers. 

Working collaboratively, the trio won the Champion title by demonstrating strong communication, teamwork and advanced problem-solving abilities. 

The category required teams of three to solve open-ended and subjective mathematical questions involving complex topics such as calculus, number theory and linear algebra. Participants were required to think analytically, evaluate different approaches and present well-reasoned solutions under competitive conditions. 

The students’ success demonstrated how mathematical understanding, when combined with effective collaboration, can help learners approach challenging problems with greater confidence and creativity.

Strong Individual Performances Across Categories

APU’s students also excelled in the individual categories.

In Category Y – Theory of Everything, which tested broad mathematical knowledge and deductive reasoning without the use of calculators, Tang secured a Consolation Prize.

In Category Z – Running Math, Tang was named 1st Runner-up, while Hein received a Consolation Prize. 

Running Math challenged participants to complete a large volume of fundamental mathematical operations within a strict time limit. The category placed significant emphasis on speed, mental agility, concentration and accuracy. 

The results highlighted the team members’ individual capabilities in addition to their collective achievement in the Mathketeers event. 

The APU contingent was supervised by Mr Saw Looi Beng, Senior Lecturer at the School of Mathematics, Actuarial and Quantitative Studies (SoMAQS). Under his mentorship, the students refined their technical abilities, competition strategies and confidence in applying mathematical concepts under pressure.

“Our students impressed not only with their strong mathematical abilities but also with their resilience, teamwork and determination throughout the competition,” Mr Saw said. 

“Their achievements reflect the dedication, perseverance and passion they invested in honing their problem-solving skills. I hope this experience inspires them to embrace greater challenges, continue nurturing curiosity and critical thinking, and use their knowledge and confidence to inspire others while making meaningful contributions to society.”

Nurturing Mathematical Excellence Beyond the Classroom

SoMAQS accorded special recognition to Tang, Desmond and Hein for their award-winning performances, which serve as an inspiration to fellow students to pursue excellence in mathematics and participate actively in academic competitions. 

The School also acknowledged the participation of Hooria Salman, a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies with a specialism in Data Analytics student, and Siew D-Heng, a Foundation Programme in Computing and Technology student. 

Head of SoMAQS, Assoc Prof Dr Rajasegeran Ramasamy, said the students’ success illustrated the importance of combining strong academic foundations with opportunities for learning beyond the classroom.

“Mathematics is the language that underpins innovation across computing, engineering, actuarial science, data analytics, finance and many other STEM-related disciplines. By guiding our students to participate in high-level competitions, our academic staff are helping them transform theoretical knowledge into practical problem-solving capabilities,” he said. 

“These achievements affirm the collective efforts of our students and lecturers in advancing the standard of tertiary mathematics education. We are proud that our students have represented APU with distinction, and we will continue nurturing mathematically confident graduates who are equipped to address increasingly complex challenges in industry and society,” concluded Dr Raja.