In February 2026, the vibrant coastal city of Penang, Malaysia welcomed 475 students from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand for the 14th Search for SEAMEO Young Scientists (SSYS) Congress. Representing 174 research projects, these young scientists gathered not only to compete but also to share ideas and demonstrate science and mathematics can contribute to solving real-world challenges.

From Vision to Action

The Congress was held under the theme, “Greenovate: Youth Turning Vision into Action for a Sustainable Future.” The theme highlighted the importance of applying scientific knowledge and innovation to address sustainability challenges facing the region.

Dr Azman bin Jusoh, Director of the SEAMEO Regional Centre for Education in Science and Mathematics (RECSAM), emphasised the purpose of the Congress:

"The 14th SSYS 2026 was designed to encourage young learners to apply science and mathematics in addressing real-world sustainability challenges through technological problem-solving. These students are turning visions into actionable solutions for a sustainable and resilient future for the region."

The Congress aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reflects the commitment of Southeast Asian Education Ministers to advancing green education across the region.

Innovations for Agriculture and Energy

Across Southeast Asia, agriculture remains essential to livelihoods, yet farmers increasingly face challenges related to climate change and resource scarcity. Many of the student projects presented at the Congress focused on developing innovative and sustainable solutions to these issues.

Among the 174 projects showcased, two teams from the Philippines received the "Most Promising Young Scientist" awards for their innovative contributions.

A lower secondary team from Cataingan National High School developed SolarisAgriTech, an AI-driven and solar-powered greenhouse system designed to optimise crop growth. Using sensors and automated nutrient delivery, the system helps regulate temperature and water usage, allowing crops such as tomatoes to grow more efficiently while conserving energy and resources.

Another team from Tarlac National High School explored how agricultural waste can be transformed into renewable energy. Using fallen Carabao mango leaves, the students created “carbon quantum dots” that can be used in window panels capable of converting ultraviolet light into electricity. This innovation demonstrates how agricultural by-products can be transformed into affordable and sustainable energy sources.

These projects illustrate how young scientists are developing practical solutions that support both environmental sustainability and community development.

Building a Resilient Tomorrow

Supported by the Ministry of Education Malaysia and partners including CHEVRON (via SEAOHUN) and The Habitat Foundation, the SSYS Congress provides more than recognition for young innovators. Winning teams received seed grants of up to USD 2,000 to help further develop their projects and explore real-world applications.

As the Congress concluded, participants returned to their home countries not only with new knowledge and experiences, but also with renewed motivation to apply science and innovation in their communities.

The ideas presented at the Congress—from solar-powered agriculture systems to energy solutions derived from agricultural waste—demonstrate how young scientists across Southeast Asia are transforming creativity and knowledge into solutions for a more sustainable future.

Learn more about the SSYS Congress:
http://www.recsam.edu.my/sub_SSYS/index.php

YB Puan Fadhlina Sidek, Minister of Education Malaysia, highlighted the importance of such platform in nurturing learners who are "value-driven and socially responsible," while strengthening the connection between classroom STEM learning and global challenges.