Building a Better Future: ISKL Hosts the IASAS Model United Nations Conference

In fulfilling ISKL’s Vision and empowering students to create a better world, we focus on helping them develop the skills, competencies, and confidence needed to become agents of change. This happens daily in the classroom and through experiences that extend learning beyond it, including ISKL’s Model United Nations (MUN) program, which begins in Middle School and continues through High School.

Earlier this month, ISKL had the honor of hosting the 2025 IASAS MUN Conference, welcoming more than 200 delegates from 20 schools across the region. United by the theme Building a Better Future, students spent three days researching, debating, and discussing global issues while advocating for solutions that reflected collaboration, empathy, and diplomacy.

While guided by teachers, MUN is, at its core, a student-run and student-led event. ISKL’s Secretariat team, headed by Secretaries General Quentin T. and Rajit R., both Grade 12 students, spent months preparing to ensure every delegate experienced a welcoming and well-organized conference. Their leadership and teamwork reflected the essence of what MUN stands for: young people taking initiative, leading with purpose, and learning together.

“The IASAS conference was a great way to end my journey in MUN,” shared Quentin T. ’26, IASAS MUN Secretary General. “I learned about the level of detail, organization, and communication to run a conference of this magnitude. While there were a few bumps along the way, I can confidently say that the convention was successful. From MUN, I’ve learned how to negotiate and effectively voice my opinions to enact real change.”

The call to enact real change was echoed in the keynote address by Ms. Louise Aubin, Senior United Nations Leader and UNHCR Malaysia Representative, who set an inspiring tone for the event. Addressing the delegates, she said, “As you take part in this model UN, remember that you’re not merely simulating diplomacy; you are rehearsing for the future. Be critical, but not cynical, be analytical but stay compassionate, challenge the system but also imagine what it can be and become.”

Over the following three days, as delegates formed alliances, crafted resolutions, and engaged in spirited debate, they had plenty of opportunities to showcase these qualities. The conference featured some of the strongest debates in recent years, with ISKL’s students representing our school with insight, enthusiasm, and integrity. Special congratulations go to ISKL students recognized as Best Delegate in the Security Council, the Organization of American States (O.A.S.), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (A.S.E.A.N.), and General Assembly 2, as well as the ISKL student awarded Most Diplomatic Delegate in the Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC).

Reflecting on the evolution of the experience, ISKL’s long-serving IASAS MUN Director Richard Martin shared, “Over the last 20 years, I’ve always been very impressed by the level of knowledge and oratorical skills of the MUN delegates. Some are so well spoken that they really should embark on diplomatic careers.” He added that the growing use of AI has changed how delegates prepare and research, emphasizing the importance of integrity and understanding in an increasingly digital landscape. His advice to delegates was timeless: be well-informed, communicate effectively, and embody “grace under pressure,” a quality he believes allows any delegate, no matter their assigned country, to shine.

As Mr. Martin concludes his final IASAS MUN conference after two decades of dedicated service, his influence and mentorship are deeply felt across the ISKL community. His leadership and belief in the power of student voice have shaped generations of MUN delegates. Several years ago, he received the Spirit of IASAS award, which honors individuals who exemplify courage, sportsmanship, and selflessness – qualities that Mr Martin truly embodies. We are deeply grateful for his commitment, passion, and the lasting impact he has made on our students and the MUN community.

We are also deeply grateful for the impact that beyond-classroom experiences like MUN have on our students and the way they help nurture confidence, empathy, and future-ready leadership. As delegates returned to their schools across the region, they carried with them new friendships, fresh perspectives, and most importantly a shared commitment to creating a better world.

Click here to learn more about the beyond classroom opportunities at ISKL.