MCKK Youth Leaders Make Their Mark on the International Stage

MCKK Youth Leaders Make Their Mark on the International Stage

From 19 to 25 July, three MCKK students proudly represented Malaysia as the nation’s sole delegation at the 17th Hwa Chong Asia Pacific Young Leaders Summit, hosted by Hwa Chong Institution, Singapore. Bringing together outstanding young leaders from 13 Asia-Pacific countries, the summit served as a platform for cross-cultural collaboration, leadership development and meaningful dialogue under the theme “Intelligence by Design, Humanity by Intent.”

Representing MCKK were Alif bin Ikmal Hisham (4S1), Muhammad Arif Zayd bin Abdullah (4S2) and Muhammad Faiz bin Razman (4S2). Throughout the week-long programme, they joined fellow delegates in exchanging ideas, tackling global issues and building meaningful connections with like-minded youth leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region.

A key highlight of the summit was the presentation of the delegates’ innovation project, which proposed practical solutions to improve access to quality education for underprivileged communities in line with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4): Quality Education. Through a series of presentations, panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions, the students demonstrated strong critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills while further refining their communication, collaboration and leadership abilities in an international setting.

Beyond academic discussions, the summit also celebrated cultural exchange. As cultural ambassadors, the MCKK delegation introduced the richness of Malaysian heritage through interactive cultural showcases. Fellow delegates had the opportunity to experience traditional games such as batu seremban, congkak and jianzi, before enjoying a lively kompang performance that reflected the vibrancy and uniqueness of Malay culture.

More than just a leadership programme, the summit broadened the students’ global perspectives, strengthened their appreciation of cultural diversity and underscored the importance of empathy, collaboration and innovation in addressing contemporary global challenges. The experience has undoubtedly equipped them with the confidence and perspective to become future leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to society.

Congratulations to Alif, Arif and Faiz for representing MCKK and Malaysia with distinction. Their dedication, professionalism and exemplary conduct throughout the summit have brought honour to MCKK while further strengthening its presence on the international stage.

Welcoming the New Principal of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar

Welcoming the New Principal of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar

The Malay College Kuala Kangsar proudly welcomes Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin bin Sha’ari as the new Principal of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar, effective 29 June 2026.

His appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the proud history of MCKK, as Koleq continues its enduring commitment to nurturing gentlemen of character, excellence, and distinction.

Bringing with him a wealth of experience in educational leadership, Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin has dedicated his career to strengthening schools, empowering educators, and inspiring students to achieve their fullest potential. His journey reflects a deep commitment to education and a passion for developing individuals who are not only successful in their pursuits, but also guided by strong values and principles.

Prior to his appointment at MCKK, Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin served as a Pegawai SISC+ Bahasa, contributing towards the enhancement of teaching and learning practices through professional guidance and educational support. His leadership journey continued through his appointments as Principal of SMK Tronoh and subsequently SMK Sultan Yussuf, where he led with dedication, integrity, and a clear vision for excellence.

Beyond his contributions in educational leadership, Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin is also recognised as a Munsyi Dewan of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, reflecting his deep appreciation and expertise in the Malay Language. This recognition highlights his commitment towards cultivating knowledge, preserving language heritage, and promoting intellectual growth.

Guiding his leadership at MCKK is his philosophy of “Manliness through Wisdom”, a principle that reflects his aspiration to develop individuals who possess both strength of character and depth of thought.

For Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin, manliness is defined not by status or power, but by the values that shape a true gentleman: integrity, discipline, moral courage, and responsibility. Meanwhile, wisdom is cultivated through knowledge, hikmah, sound judgement, and humility.

As he shares:

“Apabila keberanian dipimpin oleh kebijaksanaan, lahirlah seorang gentleman.”
When courage is guided by wisdom, a gentleman is born.

This philosophy aligns closely with the spirit of MCKK’s motto, “Fiat Sapientia Virtus”, reminding the Koleq community that true distinction is achieved when knowledge is accompanied by virtue, and courage is guided by wisdom. Together, these principles continue to shape MCKK’s enduring mission of producing gentlemen who lead with honour, serve with humility, and contribute meaningfully to society.

With his guiding principle, “Satu Pasukan, Satu Nama, Satu Maruah” (One Team, One Name, One Honour), Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin envisions a united MCKK community where every member of this prestigious institution works together towards a shared aspiration. Through collaboration, commitment, and collective pride, the MCKK family will continue to uphold its legacy while embracing new opportunities for growth and excellence.

As MCKK welcomes this new era of leadership, the entire Koleq community extends its warmest welcome to HM Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin bin Sha’ari. May his leadership inspire, his wisdom guide, and his vision continue to strengthen the legacy of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar.

Selamat datang, HM Tuan Haji Ahmad Salehin bin Sha’ari.

Together, we move forward as one team, one name, one honour.

State-Level Recognition in Co-Curricular Excellence 2025

State-Level Recognition in Co-Curricular Excellence 2025

A Form 3 student of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar was selected as Murid Cemerlang Kokurikulum Sekolah Menengah Kategori Lelaki Tahun 2025, Peringkat Negeri Perak, in recognition of his consistent, well-rounded, and sustained contributions as a student. The selection was made through a competitive process involving candidates from secondary schools across Perak, including senior students, reflecting the breadth and rigour of the assessment.

The award was presented during the State-Level Secondary School Co-Curricular Excellence Awards Ceremony (Anugerah Kecemerlangan Kokurikulum) Perak 2025, held on 8 December 2025 at the Tower Regency Hotel, Ipoh.

The student was recognised primarily for his long-term involvement in co-curricular activities, having represented the school at various levels and contributed meaningfully to platforms related to innovation, research, and writing. Among these was his participation in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2025 (ISEF 2025) in Columbus, Ohio, United States, where his team’s innovation project, Last Chance Groceries (LCG), received a Special Award from Oracle Academy, accompanied by a USD5,000 cash prize.

His research and writing engagements also extend to international academic platforms. In December 2024, he received the Best Paper Award at the ARSSS International Conference in New York for a research paper titled “Technological Innovations in Food Waste Reduction: Case Studies from East and Southeast Asia.” Earlier, his creative writing was recognised at the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024, where his essay was awarded Gold.

In addition to his co-curricular achievements, the student has demonstrated consistent academic excellence, having remained within the top three of his cohort since Form One, reflecting discipline, commitment, and strong academic habits.

He is also actively involved in student leadership and community engagement, serving in roles such as Prefect, Pembimbing Rakan Sebaya, Vice Secretary of the Innovation Club, and Vice Secretary of the Basketball Club. Beyond the school setting, he is a co-founder of a student-led volunteer initiative focused on educational outreach and community service. In 2025, the initiative expanded its reach from a single school in Perak to selected primary schools across Perak, Kedah, and Selangor, providing Year 4 to Year 6 pupils with early exposure to the fundamentals of creative animation using iPads, including idea generation, story development, storyboarding, and basic digital animation.

This achievement reflects the emphasis placed by The Malay College Kuala Kangsar on balanced development, leadership, and service, and stands as a strong example of holistic student growth within the MCKK community.

From Kuala Kangsar to Columbus: Twin Brothers from MCKK at ISEF 2025

From Kuala Kangsar to Columbus: Twin Brothers from MCKK at ISEF 2025

In 2025, The Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK) recorded a meaningful achievement when two Form Three twin brothers were given the opportunity to represent Malaysia at both national and international innovation competitions.

Their journey began at the Pertandingan Inovasi Sains, Teknologi dan Kejuruteraan (PISTEK) 2025, organised by the Ministry of Education Malaysia as the official selection platform for the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the United States. After progressing through several stages of evaluation, the MCKK team was selected among the national finalists with their project, Last Chance Groceries—a mobile application designed to reduce food waste while supporting low-income communities.

This achievement enabled them to represent Malaysia at ISEF 2025, held in Columbus, Ohio, alongside nationally selected student innovators from over 75 countries. During the competition, their project received a Special Award from Oracle Academy, accompanied by a USD 5,000 cash prize. The award was conferred on only four teams worldwide, representing Malaysia (through MCKK), the United States, Singapore, and Puerto Rico.

This accomplishment highlights the importance of curiosity, perseverance, and social awareness in student learning, and reflects MCKK’s continued commitment to nurturing thoughtful individuals who apply knowledge in service of the wider community.

MCKK on the World Robotics Stage

MCKK on the World Robotics Stage

The Malay College Kuala Kangsar continues its quiet tradition of excellence beyond the classroom and the field. Recently, two of its students, carried the MCKK crest onto the international robotics stage, representing Koleq with focus, discipline, and determination.

From 31 October to 2 November, the team competed in the Romania Robot Challenge, where they achieved a Top 8 finish in the demanding 3kg Remote Control (RC) category. Their performance there led to an invitation to the All Japan Robot Sumo Tournament (AJRST), held from 4 to 10 December, a competition recognised globally for its high standards and invitation-only format.

Throughout the competitions, the team demonstrated not only technical skill, but also composure and resilience in the face of strong international opposition. They were guided by Coach Mr Zulkarnain Abdullah Nawani of Ikedo Kogeki Malaysia, with the support of Cikgu Mohd Razif Abdul Razak, whose guidance and commitment played an important role in the team’s preparation and performance.

The Malay College Kuala Kangsar records its appreciation to the Headmaster, Mr Aimin Fadhlee bin Mahmud Zuhodi, and the Senior Assistant of Co-curricular, Mr Noor Ramdhan bin Ramli, for their consistent support and encouragement throughout this journey.

This achievement reflects the broader spirit of MCKK, where curiosity is nurtured, discipline is valued, and students are encouraged to test their abilities beyond familiar boundaries. It stands as a reminder that with guidance, perseverance, and purpose, our students are able to engage confidently on the international stage.