So Many Subjects In SPM?

Every year when I read the newspapers that SPM results are out, I am really shocked to see that people are doing like 16 subjects, or 18 subjects for SPM. Not only that, they can hit like 17A1 and 1A2. I was like what on earth? I mean during my time 9 subjects is enough to kill me and now students can take 18 subjects? It is either the kids today are smarter or the exam is a lot easier. So which is which? If you have taken more than 10 subjects, do tell me how u do that