Written by Asma Irdina, Pictures by Karthikesani
The Tan Yew Sing Multipurpose Hall at INTI International University Nilai was buzzing with excitement on Thursday, 13th of April 2023 as the much-awaited Social Innovation Exhibition and Competition finally kicked off. The event brought together students, staff, and industry experts to celebrate and showcase innovative solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges.
The exhibition was organized by the Faculty of Education and Liberal Arts, providing a platform for the young innovators to showcase their ideas and projects, which ranged from environmental sustainability to social justice initiatives. The competition brought together 56 groups of students from various disciplines who are enrolled in a Design Thinking course, with each team presenting their projects to a panel of judges. The students have gone through 12 weeks of discussion and mentoring from respective lecturers and industry mentors.
According to the chairperson, Ms Yi Xue Fang, the event was a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and creativity among its students. It provided an opportunity for the participants to not only showcase their ideas but also to network and learn from each other, receive feedback from experts, and compete for recognition and prizes.
“This exhibition also encourages students to think creatively and develop solutions that make a positive impact on society. I really hope that the industry players who are interested with the students’ ideas can come up with future collaboration”
The judges had a tough time selecting the winners, as the quality of the projects was exceptional. In the end, the winners were announced, and the winning teams that secured the first place were awarded to the group with the idea entitled “Subterranean E-Parking with Advanced Drainage System” for their hard work and dedication. The second place and third place were secured by the team who proposed the idea of “IOT For Carbon Monoxide Control” and “Multifunctional Grocery Bag (ONLY)” respectively.
Associate Professor Dr. Ng Miew Luan, the Dean of the Faculty of Education and Liberal Arts, delivered the closing remarks of the event, which was attended by Professor Dr. Wong Shing Ling, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research & Knowledge Transfer, and Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Choo Wou Onn, Pro Vice Chancellor for the Cross Functional Centre. We would like to express our gratitude to our sponsors: The Institution of Engineering and Technology Malaysia, Ler Lum Advisory Services Sdn Bhd, and Fairplays Realty Sdn Bhd.
We would also like to commend all the Design Thinking Lecturers – Prof Dr Leong Wai Yie, Prof Dr Tiu Zean Cheak, Ms Fang, Ms Nadia, and Mr Sean Ang – for their hard work and dedication in guiding the students to develop their projects. Special appreciation goes to the adjunct mentors from the industries who provided valuable guidance on the feasibility and sustainability of the projects. Congratulations to all the students on their successful completion of the program!
The Social Innovation Exhibition and Competition at INTI International University was truly an inspiring event that highlighted the creativity, passion, and dedication of the next generation of social innovators. It demonstrated that with the right support and encouragement, young people can make a significant difference in the world.