UTAR Surgical Society team wins second place at IMU Intervarsity Quiz Competition 2025

In a compelling showcase of clinical acumen and teamwork, the UTAR Surgical Society team secured second place in the IMU Intervarsity Quiz Competition 2025, held on 4 October 2025 at the International Medical University (IMU), Kuala Lumpur. This outstanding performance is a testament to the University’s commitment to cultivating excellence and resilience among its medical students.

Representing the M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (MK FMHS), the team comprised Year Four Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) student Celysce Fui Sze Kei, Year Three student Damien Teo Jia Yuen, and Year Two students Kate Chee and Lee Huan Yang. They were mentored and supported by Clinical Assoc Prof Dr Yan Naing Soe, Consultant Trainer and Advisor of the UTAR Surgical Society, together with Dr Low Yi Xuan and Dr Hnin Pwint Phyu from the Departments of Surgery and Pre-clinical Sciences, respectively.

Competing against top medical schools in the region, including Monash University and a team from Thailand, the UTAR contingent demonstrated sharp clinical reasoning, effective communication, and seamless collaboration. Their journey to the podium was shaped by weeks of intensive preparation, underpinned by dedicated guidance from their academic mentors. Through simulated quizzes, in-depth discussions, and critical analysis, the team honed their ability to think under pressure and apply complex medical knowledge in real-time scenarios.

Reflecting on their achievement, the team shared that the experience was both enriching and humbling. “The competition tested more than just our knowledge. It challenged us to think critically, work as one, and adapt swiftly,” they remarked. Their second-place win, accompanied by a trophy, certificates, and a cash prize, stands as a celebration of both individual dedication and collective effort.

Dr Yan highlighted the transformative impact of the experience, stating that such platforms cultivate not only academic excellence but also the soft skills crucial for future medical practitioners. “It was heartening to witness the students’ growth throughout the journey,” he said. “Their performance reflects UTAR’s strong educational foundation and the spirit of lifelong learning we nurture.”

The IMU Intervarsity Quiz serves as a vital platform for future healthcare professionals to challenge themselves in a competitive yet collegial environment. UTAR’s continued success in such arenas underlines its role in advancing medical education and fostering a new generation of competent, compassionate doctors.