RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s young physicists have once again proven their global competitiveness, clinching five medals at the 2026 International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) in Colombia, a success that has prompted calls to expand opportunities for the nation’s rising talents.

Indonesian Ambassador to Colombia Tatang Budie Utama Razak emphasized the importance of prioritizing education to nurture future achievers. “Education must remain a priority so Indonesian talent continues to grow, compete internationally, and bring pride to the nation,” he said in a message on Monday, July 13, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The Indonesian Embassy in Bogotá supported the national team during the 56th IPhO, held in Bucaramanga from July 4–12, 2026. Tatang expressed pride in the students’ accomplishments and urged the government to continue recognizing their achievements.

According to the National Achievement Center of the Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education, Indonesia secured one gold, two silver, and two bronze medals.

The gold medal was won by Evan Syatia To of SMAK BPK Penabur Gading Serpong, Tangerang, Banten. Silver medals went to Ackhava Adam Malonda of SMA Wardaya Jakarta and Gusti Komang Abhika Atmaja of SMA Kesatuan Bangsa Yogyakarta. Bronze medals were awarded to Arrow Dunatos Pascha Kristian of SMA Negeri Unggulan M.H. Thamrin Jakarta and Juan Richie of SMAS Kristen Immanuel Pontianak, West Kalimantan.

This year’s IPhO brought together 381 participants from 93 countries, including 87 competing nations and six observers.

The competition tested students through five-hour experimental and theoretical exams covering mechanics, thermodynamics, statistical physics, electromagnetism, optics, modern physics, and quantum physics. Results were moderated by an international jury before medalists were announced on July 11 in Bucaramanga. ***