KUCHING: Young talents from Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan gave an impressive showing at HIPPO The Contest 2026 Asia Pacific continental round in Phuket, Thailand with two podium finishes.
Twenty-five students represented the three regions in the prestigious English language competition, competing against outstanding participants from 20 countries and regions throughout the Asia-Pacific from July 2-5.
Hippo ‘English Without Borders’ is an international English language Olympiad for students aged 6 to 19 across more than 70 countries.
The contest which is divided into multiple stages tests students’ comprehension, use of English, writing and speaking skills.
Sarawak’s Puteri Aulia Delisya Mohd Syahmi from SK Wira Jaya, Kota Samarahan, claimed third prize in the HIPPO 1 category, bringing pride to the state.
Sabah also celebrated success after Alton Chin Bo Yik from SJKC Yuk Chin, Tawau, secured third prize in the Little HIPPO category during the continental competition.
Participants qualified through the national rounds before earning the opportunity to represent Malaysian Borneo.
The competition provided an international platform for students to demonstrate English proficiency while strengthening friendships, cultural understanding and cooperation among participating countries and regions.
Besides competing, students interacted with contestants from across the Asia-Pacific, and proudly promoted Sabah, Sarawak, Labuan and Malaysia throughout the programme.
The delegation also included representatives from schools in Bintulu, Miri, Kuching, Sarikei, Sandakan, Kota Kinabalu, Lahad Datu, Ranau, Tawau and Labuan.
