Sunway International Schools Student - Receives OCLA and Named Top in Malaysia for Cambridge IGCSE History

Sunway International School Kuala Lumpur (SISKL) celebrates the outstanding achievement of IGCSE graduate Wataru Harano, who received the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards (OCLA) and was recognised as Top in Malaysia for Cambridge IGCSE History in the November 2025 examination series.

For Wataru, his journey at SISKL has been one of growth, discovery, and meaningful connections. Having moved between countries and experienced different school environments throughout his childhood, transitioning to a new school was never easy. However, he found SISKL to be a place where he could thrive academically while building lasting relationships with his teachers and peers.

“What made Sunway stand out to me was that it offered a conducive environment for building meaningful connections,” Wataru shared. He valued the school’s personalised learning environment, which allowed him to receive detailed feedback from teachers, engage in discussions, and develop a deeper understanding of his learning journey.

Beyond academics, Wataru appreciated how SISKL’s learning spaces encouraged both focus and collaboration. From quiet study sessions in the library to group discussions and interactions with friends, the school environment supported his growth and confidence. He also benefited from opportunities beyond the classroom, including international competitions, engineering workshops, and research projects, which further broadened his experiences.

Wataru’s parents also shared their appreciation for SISKL’s student-centred approach. When choosing a school, they initially had uncertainties about the Cambridge curriculum, but these concerns were quickly eased after engaging with SISKL teachers and understanding the school’s educational philosophy.

They highlighted the importance of SISKL’s personalised feedback and the way teachers guided students as individuals, focusing not only on academic results but also on learning habits and personal development. They were especially inspired by the mindset that “mistakes are welcome”, an approach that encouraged students to view challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.

Through academic opportunities such as the Cambridge curriculum, Math Olympiads, international competitions, and enrichment programmes, SISKL continues to nurture students who are not only academically capable but also confident, resilient, and prepared for future success.

Wataru’s achievement reflects the impact of a supportive learning community where students are empowered to pursue excellence while developing the skills and mindset needed to thrive beyond the classroom.