Teen Geniuses: Isaac and Jacob Gew's Breakthrough

At ages 13 and 12, Isaac and Jacob Gew have already defied expectations, not just as prodigies in mathematics and science, but as young engineers set to change the world. 

Their story is one of incredible intellect, but also one shaped by the unwavering support of their family and the values instilled in them. The two brothers, often seen as partners in creation rather than competitors, are proof that age is no barrier to greatness, because curiosity and passion can ignite at any age. 

A Home Fueled by Curiosity and Faith

From their earliest years, Isaac and Jacob were immersed in an environment that nurtured their innate curiosity. Their mother, Dr Rebecca Tay, fondly recalls how Isaac, at just one year old, could already identify big numbers and count confidently to 100. "He was already reading out three-digit numbers, recognising both upper- and lower-case A-Z," she recalls. Jacob, never far behind, was equally fascinated by the world of mechanics, art, and creation. The boys' home was a place of learning and exploration, with everyday moments transformed into opportunities for discovery.

"We never gave them answers," Mr Gew, their father, says. "Instead, we asked them, 'What do you think happens next?' This small shift was what kept their curiosity alive." It was a question that became central to their upbringing, a reminder that learning wasn’t a race but an ongoing process to be savoured. With a foundation rooted in biblical principles, the Gew family ensured that, alongside curiosity, character was also nurtured. 

As they grew, so did their passion for engineering. Isaac and Jacob often spent hours dismantling toys to understand how they worked, their minds constantly seeking answers to the world’s mysteries. While other kids their age played with stuffed animals, their source of entertainment was number-learning apps. It seemed that numbers fascinated them to an infinite degree, putting them on a loop of keenly solving the boundless equations that mathematics yielded. 

But even as their academic journey accelerated, their parents ensured they never lost their childhood joy. "Childhood is sacred," Dr Tay affirms. "We made sure they played badminton, swam, laughed at silly jokes, and had those typical screen-time arguments every parent knows too well." It was crucial for Dr Tay and Mr Gew that their two boys have fun like other children do, as they are adamant that Isaac and Jacob find a balance between their academics and personal lives. For gifted children, being overly absorbed in their education is a common risk that can steal away their youth. But for Isaac and Jacob, their parents nurture a life where education and joy coexist in perfect balance.

A Brotherhood Strengthened by Laughter and Respect

Isaac and Jacob’s bond is not one built out of sibling rivalry. In fact, it is built on something of quite the opposite. They are more like teammates, constantly walking hand in hand, guiding and motivating each other to new heights. 

Their relationship has always been one of mutual respect, support, and collaboration. Building LEGOs and dismantling toys together turned into collaborative projects that became the foundation of their teamwork. 

"We challenge each other, but always with love and laughter," Jacob says proudly. This tender closeness has shaped their academic success and continues to drive their shared ambitions. Celebrating each other’s wins is what anchors them when challenges arise; they constantly lift each other, no matter what befalls them. 

Their bond played a key role when Isaac and Jacob both entered the University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM) at ages 12 and 13, a moment that left their parents filled with pride, awe, and a touch of worry. "Watching your 12- and 13-year-olds step into a Master’s programme is both thrilling and humbling," says Dr Tay. At ages when children transition into high school, Isaac and Jacob are already jumping fences towards a Master’s education. Despite this abrupt changeover, Isaac and Jacob are now adapting smoothly at UoSM, thanks to the community's reassurance and support. Prof. Suan Hui Pu, a Fulbright Scholar from MIT, and Prof. Ehsan Mesbahi, a provost and expert in AI healthcare, in particular, have helped the two brothers to thrive tremendously despite their age. 

Ambitions and Achievements Beyond The Ordinary

At UoSM, Isaac and Jacob continue to push the boundaries of engineering. Isaac’s passion for AI-driven mechatronics has led him to work on projects that blend robotics, physics, and artificial intelligence. "I find it amazing how mechanical, electrical, and software engineering can come together to create intelligent systems that can react to their environment," Isaac explains. One of his first projects was developing a Python interface for CAD automation, which he followed by designing a sensor interface for wearable technology. These innovations were made to improve prosthetic limbs and even restore speech to those who have lost their voice.

Jacob, on the other hand, is driven by his love for biomedical engineering, specifically creating technologies that improve healthcare. His work on a prosthetic arm prototype and on a pressure sensor to simulate ‘touch’ in prosthetics is groundbreaking. "My biggest ambition is to help people directly through engineering," Jacob shares. "I want to create point-of-care devices, affordable prosthetics, and even artificial organs."

Their accomplishments at such a young age are remarkable, but what truly sets Isaac and Jacob’s story apart is their commitment to using their gifts for the greater good. Isaac shares, “I want to design smart, adaptive systems that bring engineering closer to humanity.” This aligns with UoSM’s MEng in Mechanical Engineering programme,  where students explore modules like Data Science, Thermofluids, Finite Element Analysis, and Intelligent Mobile Robotics, equipping them to design systems with real-world impact. Jacob echoes this vision: “If I can design something that gives someone independence or hope, that would be my greatest reward.” The programme’s focus on real-world design projects, including research and group work, prepares students to create solutions that truly empower people.

As the brothers continue their academic journey at UoSM, they are not only learning to create smarter machines but also shaping the future of engineering with empathy and compassion at the forefront. "What keeps my fire burning," says Jacob, "is the thought that maybe one day, one of my ideas will change someone’s life."

A Future Powered by Faith, Family, and Purpose

Isaac and Jacob’s extraordinary achievements have taught them the true value of character, curiosity, and family. Their parents have instilled in them the belief that intelligence is a blessing, but character is a choice. "We’ve always reminded them that their gifts are meant to bless others, not to boast," says Mr Gew. The brothers are living proof that true success is not measured by age or accolades, but by the kindness, humility, and purpose that guide one's journey.

At the surface of it, Isaac and Jacob’s story is about the greatness that they have achieved. But at the core of it, it’s about how their greatness is being put to good use: by living with intention and service to others. For them, the sky’s the limit—yet they remain grounded in the values that have shaped them into the young men they are today.