19th Malaysia Festival of the Mind 2025 inspires creativity and innovation

The 19th Malaysia Festival of the Mind (MFotM) brought a vibrant celebration of creativity, intellect, and innovation to Pay Fong Middle School, Melaka, on 21 and 22 November 2025. This year’s festival carried the theme Innovate with Intellect: The Fusion of Mind and STEM, highlighting how mental literacy and STEM education can work hand in hand to nurture future-ready thinkers and innovators.

Jointly organised by the Malaysia Mental Literacy Movement (MMLM), UTAR, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), and Pay Fong Middle School Melaka, the two-day event attracted students, educators, and members of the public eager to explore the boundless potential of the human mind through engaging talks, exhibitions, and interactive challenges.

Present at the opening ceremony were YB Datuk Rosli Abdullah, Deputy EXCO for Education, Higher Education and Religious Affairs, Melaka, representing YAB Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf bin Yusoh, Chief Minister of Melaka; UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, MMLM Assistant Secretary Ms Lim Guat Yen, MMLM Committee Members Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr Ng Yen Yen, Dato’ Sri Mah King Seng, Prof Ts Dr Faidz Abd Rahman, UTAR Vice President for R&D and Commercialisation Prof Dr Zuraidah Abd Manaf; Pay Fong Middle School Principal Madam Ng Swee Lai, Pay Fong Middle School Vice Principal (Academic Affairs) Mr Tan Sin Hong, Pay Fong Middle School Vice Principal (Student Affairs) Mr Ong Jia Xian, representatives of the Vice-Chancellors, Presidents and academic leaders of various higher learning institutions; school principals, teachers and students; as well as industry leaders, collaborative partners, generous sponsors and supporters.

Prof Dato’ Ewe highlighted the importance of mental literacy in developing innovative, resilient and future-ready learners. He emphasised that the festival plays a crucial role in promoting lifelong learning and encouraging the community to nurture the tremendous potential of the human mind. He said, “Today, we are witnessing the power of mental literacy and education that empowers minds and nurtures change-makers. It is more than just providing education, we are transforming lives, uplifting communities, and building a future that thrives beyond generations. I hope your time here will also inspire others as you embark on a journey of innovation and transformation. Together, we are nurturing minds, and shaping a sustainable future.”

Tan Sri Ng commended the collaboration between MMLM, UTAR, TAR UMT and Pay Fong Middle School in advancing public awareness of mental literacy. She encouraged students to harness both intellect and creativity to address future challenges. She said, “In an era shaped by artificial intelligence, students must nurture creativity, strong thinking skills and the ability to innovate. Through engaging brain activities, they can unlock their thinking potential and strengthen their creative abilities. When young minds are trained to think deeply and imaginatively, they are better equipped to face the challenges of the future.”

An opening speech was delivered by YB Datuk Rosli. In his speech, he said, “Each year, the Malaysia Festival of the Mind provides an inspiring platform for students to explore their abilities, develop new ideas and express their creativity. In line with the theme, this year’s festival encourages everyone to think boldly and embrace challenges as opportunities. The Melaka State Government is proud to support this initiative in shaping a generation that is academically capable, innovative and ready to contribute to the nation’s progress.”

The festival featured the Mind Competitions Award Ceremony 2025, alongside inspiring sessions by memory experts Mr West Wong (Malaysian Human Calculator), Mr Wong Wan Jiun (Grandmaster of Memory), and Mr Teo Kim Foo (International Master of Memory). Their talks provided valuable insights into mental training, focus, and the art of lifelong learning.

The STEM Cube Challenge 2025 saw participants aged 12 and below, as well as 13 and above, demonstrating exceptional logic, speed, and precision in solving the Rubik’s Cube. Approved by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Melaka State Education Department (JPN Melaka), the challenge showcased the participants’ impressive mental agility and problem-solving skills.

The Student STEM Innovation Lab featured a showcase of creative and innovative projects from schools across Malaysia, including SMK Kota Kemuning, SMK Jugra, SMK Methodist (ACS) Melaka, SMK Ulu Tiram, and the host school, Pay Fong Middle School. Notably, SK Seri Kepayang (Perak) captured attention with its inclusive innovation, SEReSA 2.0 (Special Education Reward System Application), a project designed to empower special education students through technology.

Enriched by more than 30 exhibition booths, hands-on activities, and knowledge-sharing sessions, the 19th Malaysia Festival of the Mind 2025 successfully inspired Malaysians to think critically, innovate boldly, and embrace the limitless potential of the human mind.