Four outstanding students unite across disciplines to secure the National Champion title at INFINITUM 2026, showcasing APU’s strength in mathematical excellence, teamwork, and future-ready talent development.

The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has once again demonstrated the calibre of its students, as Team Infinity Titans emerged as the National Champion at the INFINITUM: National Mathematics Quest 2026. This remarkable achievement not only celebrates individual brilliance but also underscores the University’s growing reputation for nurturing high-performing, analytically driven talent. 

Organised by the USM Mathematics Society at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), the prestigious competition ran from 14 March to 11 April 2026, attracting over 100 of Malaysia’s brightest students from both public and private universities. Against this highly competitive backdrop, APU’s representatives distinguished themselves through precision, speed, and exceptional teamwork. 

Cross-Disciplinary Talent, Unified in Excellence

Team Infinity Titans brought together a dynamic mix of students from across APU’s academic ecosystem. The team comprised Tang Dao Mian (BSc (Hons) in Information Technology with a specialism in Financial Technology), Liang Yishen (BSc (Hons) in Software Engineering), Ho Sheng Wei (BSc (Hons) in Actuarial Studies), and Marcus Tan Jin Shen (BSc (Hons) in Computer Science with a specialism in Data Analytics).

Representing the School of Mathematics, Actuarial and Quantitative Studies (SoMAQS), School of Technology (SoT), and School of Computing (SoC), the team embodied APU’s interdisciplinary strength where mathematical rigour meets technological innovation.

Under the mentorship of Mr Saw Looi Beng and Dr Sireesha Prathi Gadapa, senior lecturers from SoMAQS, the students underwent intensive preparation. Through structured discussions, iterative problem-solving sessions, and simulation of high-pressure scenarios, the mentors refined not only the team’s technical competence but also their confidence and cohesion.

Thriving Under Pressure

Reflecting on the experience, Tang Dao Mian described the intensity of the competition, “The atmosphere was electric; we had to maintain absolute focus to solve complex problems against the clock. It wasn’t just about knowing the mathematics, but about how quickly we could think, adapt, and respond as a team under pressure.” 

The competition itself was designed to challenge participants across multiple dimensions. From the preliminary rounds to the finals, teams were tested on mathematical reasoning, speed, and collaborative problem-solving. 

In the final stage, three distinct levels pushed competitors to their limits. The Logic and Strategy Challenge required critical thinking and strategic collaboration in game-based scenarios. The Mathematics Escape Room introduced time-bound, interconnected puzzles demanding seamless teamwork. The Final Arena, the most intense segment, saw teams competing head-to-head to solve advanced mathematical problems with speed and precision. 

Through each stage, Team Infinity Titans demonstrated unwavering consistency, composure, and intellectual agility—qualities that ultimately propelled them to the top of the leaderboard. 

Mentorship and Mathematical Foundations

The mentors attributed the team’s success to a powerful combination of strong fundamentals and strategic execution. 

“What stood out was their ability to integrate solid mathematical foundations with sharp strategic thinking,” said Mr Saw Looi Beng. “They communicated effectively, trusted one another, and executed solutions with clarity even under immense pressure, and this is what differentiates champions.” 

Dr Sireesha Prathi Gadapa further emphasised the broader significance of the achievement, “Mathematics is at the heart of all STEM disciplines. Seeing our students excel at this level reaffirms that they possess the analytical depth, logical reasoning, and resilience required to solve complex, real-world problems. These are precisely the competencies that will shape future innovators.” 

A Reflection of Academic Strength

Associate Professor Dr Rajasegeran Ramasamy, Head of SoMAQS, expressed immense pride in the team’s accomplishment:

“This achievement is a testament to both the capability of our students and the strength of our academic environment. At APU, we are deeply committed to cultivating analytical excellence and producing graduates who are not only academically proficient but also industry-ready. This victory reflects the impact of that commitment in action.”

Championing the Future

By clinching the National Champion title and a cash prize of RM1,000, Team Infinity Titans has brought home more than just accolades, as they have reinforced APU’s position as a leading institution in developing mathematically adept, future-ready graduates. 

While industries continue to demand sharper analytical capabilities and complex problem-solving skills, this victory stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative role of mathematics education at APU.