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Kota Kinabalu: Nicholas Soo, a young Sabahan who secured admission to the University College London’s prestigious Medical School ranked 8th globally in the QS World Rankings by Subject 2025, is grateful to the State Government under Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s leadership. 

The Form Six scholar at Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, beat staggering odds to claim one of only 24 international places from nearly 3,800 applicants competing for 334 spots in the UCL’s undergraduate medicine programme. 

In recognition of his outstanding achievement, Nicholas received the Biasiswa Cemerlang Kerajaan Negeri Sabah from Hajiji at a ceremony held at the Sabah International Convention Centre earlier this year. 

He described the Chief Minister as soft-spoken, approachable and empathetic to students’ educational challenges.

Now settled into university life with lectures underway, Nicholas remains focused on his goal of becoming a doctor to serve communities and contribute to the Chief Minister’s vision of enhancing Sabah’s healthcare system.

“I am profoundly grateful to the State Government for the unwavering support in enabling me to pursue my dream,” he said.

Nicholas, from Kota Kinabalu, achieved academic excellence at the Tshung Tsin Secondary School, scoring 11 straight As in SPM, followed by 3A grades at A-Level.

His breakthrough came when he topped Malaysia’s University Clinical Aptitude Test and ranked in the top one per cent worldwide among 37,913 test-takers for 2025 entry. 

He credits rigorous early preparation and support from his parents and mentors for his success in the UCL’s demanding interview process.