Tan Qing Yi, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Accounting at UTAR Faculty of Accountancy and Management, represented UTAR at the International Economics Olympiad (IEO) 2024, held in Hong Kong from 22 to 31 July 2024. Tan and her team achieved an impressive third place in the Business Case Challenge, showcasing their collaborative and problem-solving skills.

Tan’s academic journey began at UTAR Centre for Foundation Studies (CFS), Kampar Campus, where she built a solid foundation in economics, financial management, and marketing subjects. This strong academic base proved valuable as she advanced in her studies and competitions, eventually leading her to represent Malaysia internationally.

Her success at IEO followed earlier achievements, including her participation in the Kijang Economics Competition and the Malaysian Economics Olympiad, where she excelled and was selected for the international competition. Reflecting on her selection to represent Malaysia, Tan expressed her joy and pride, and said, “It felt like a dream come true.”

The IEO competition featured three main categories, namely Economics, Financial Literacy, and Business Case Competition, with the latter being the most challenging. Despite the pressure, her team demonstrated strong teamwork, with members supporting one another throughout the process. “It was stressful, but the teamwork was incredible. We helped each other pull through,” she shared.

Tan acknowledged the role of her studies, including her time at CFS Kampar Campus, in preparing her for the challenges she faced. “The knowledge I gained was invaluable, particularly in the financial management calculations,” she said. She also expressed her appreciation for the guidance and training provided by her lecturers, which helped sharpen her skills during her Foundation studies.

She expressed her gratitude to CFS Kampar Campus academics Ms Haw Ai Peng and Mr Nawanithan Thanimalay for their training sessions that prepared her for the challenging questions in the Kijang Economics Competition. Additionally, she acknowledged CFS Kampar Campus academic Ms Koo Xi Min for recognising her potential and selecting her to participate in the Kijang Economics Competition during her Foundation studies.

Representing Malaysia at the IEO was a significant milestone for Tan, leaving her with lasting memories. “It was an amazing experience, and I am proud to have represented Malaysia,” she concluded.

The IEO is an annual competition designed to enhance creative problem-solving skills among high school students interested in Economics, Business, and Finance. The international competition saw the participation of 50 economies and territories.