19yo Malaysian math whiz sets record for solving 50 digits multiplication in 24.61 secs

Yap surrounded by her impressive collection of over 1,000 trophies from various competitions. Photos: Yap Wen Min

In the last 14 years, Yap Wen Min, 19, has won over 1,000 trophies in Mathematics, Science, debating and public speaking competitions, both locally and internationally.

Recently, the Kuala Lumpur-based teenager reached another milestone by entering the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) for being the Fastest to Solve 50 Digits Multiplication in 24.61 seconds.

Yap with her Malaysia Book of Records certificate.

For this feat, she did a mathematical operation of multiplying two numbers, each of which has 50 digits, without a calculator.

Yap said gaining entry into the MBR has been one of the achievements she has aimed for for years.

“What excites me the most is not the recognition itself, but the personal growth and transformation that led to it. As I focused on improving my mentality and honing my skills, my entry into MBR became a natural outcome.

“This experience has been fulfilling for me due to the invaluable lessons – which are not typically found in textbooks – that the journey taught me,” said Yap during an interview in Cheras, KL.

Yap, who has just finished her foundation studies, is currently on her gap year before she continues her degree in economics. She completed the MBR feat in April.

Performing a 50-digit multiplication is challenging and requires advanced mathematical and mental calculation skills due to the sheer number of digits involved.

“To solve this, I used various techniques, such as breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts, and applying different mental strategies from several experiences. I put myself in different competitive settings, and my main aim is not to win but to learn from experiences.

“Therefore, by effectively combining all the resources and experiences we have, with the right direction and right mindset, these experiences, these achievements and failures will be just like a book that makes us grow and improve towards the area we are focusing in,” said Yap, who has been attending Maths lessons at various tuition centres and with different tutors since she was six.

Yap’s parents, Yin Wai Koon (left) and Yap Kok Siong have supported her journey to becoming a record holder in the Malaysia Book of Records.

Yap said the biggest challenges she faced in achieving this feat were managing her time and dealing with mental strain.

“My focus is not only to break the national record, but also to balance my schoolwork and take on leadership positions and join tournaments such as debates, nationally and internationally.

“However, it was in these difficulties that I discovered a stronger version of myself. Throughout this journey, I’ve been fortunate to have the support of my mentors who have guided me, challenged me and encouraged me to keep pushing my limits,” explained Yap, who practises Maths up to six hours each day.

Yap, who is also a mentor for Teach for Malaysia, says it has been an incredible journey, and she is very thrilled with how far she has come.

“It’s not just the achievement itself, but about everything I’ve learnt along the way. I feel fulfilled knowing that every step of this journey has improved my skills holistically, which contributed to my personal and professional development. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next adventure, solving the next complex challenge and seeing how far I can contribute,” said Yap, who emerged best international speaker at the 2024 Indonesia Youth Foundation’s Role of Youth in Asean online forum.

Love for numbers

Yap, the younger of two siblings, is drawn to Maths because she feels that numbers are one of the most reliable tools to uncover truths and validate ideas.

Yap's journey showcases her versatility and commitment across numerous fields. Photo: Instagram/Wenmin_0423

“As someone who is passionate about Economics, I am fascinated by how Maths helps to analyse and solve real-world problems. Economics, unlike other subjects, is not a fixed and static subject. Its theories change from time to time, which requires a lot of debates and analytical skills.”

Yap has attained many other achievements including the gold award in China’s ShenMo Cup International Mathematical Arithmetic Olympiad 2023 and silver award in Thailand’s International Mathematical Olympiad 2022. On Aug 22, she won the silver medal (Upper Secondary category) in the Kijang Economics competition, a national event that tests students on entrepreneurship, financial literacy and business.

For those who dislike Maths, Yap suggests viewing it as a puzzle or pattern rather than just a requirement for grades and exams.

“By doing so, it can help us to understand the things happening around us much better. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help when something does not make sense. As you try more and make more mistakes, we will be able to find the logic behind it or a method that suits us the most.

“Try to find the connections between Maths and the things you love. No matter if you are into sports, music or art, there is Maths behind it all. Once we see how Maths applies to our interests, it might start to feel more fun and less like a chore.”