The Certified Industrial Designer (CiDE) recognition highlights Mr Saifullizan Abdul Wahab’s influence in industrial design education and practice, positioning him as a trailblazer in the product and transport design industry.

The new year dawned brightly for Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation’s (APU) School of Media, Arts and Design (SoMAD) as one of their esteemed Lecturers, Mr Saifullizan Abdul Wahab, achieved a significant milestone by earning the coveted Certified Industrial Designer (CiDE) recognition.

This prestigious accolade was bestowed upon him at the Malaysian Design Council (MRM) Industry Dialogue and Certified Industrial Designer 2024 Certification Ceremony, held at Dewan Perdana, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Tower, Kuala Lumpur.

A testament to his unwavering dedication and profound expertise in the realm of product and transport design, Saifullizan’s journey is a story of passion and perseverance.

From concept to creation, his illustrious career began with a Bachelor of Industrial Design, followed by a Master of Art and Design (by Research) from the esteemed Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM). 

In 1997, he embarked on his professional journey as an automotive designer at Perodua Manufacturing Sdn. Bhd., where he honed his skills and contributed to the development of iconic models, including the Perodua Rusa, Kancil, Kembara, Kelisa, MyVi, Alza, and Axia.

A highlight of his career was leading the Interior Concept Car project — Perodua Bezza — which he proudly presented at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2010.

A Mentor’s Touch: Inspiring Future Generations

As a passionate educator, Saifullizan is renowned not only for his exceptional teaching but also for his remarkable mentorship further solidifying his position as a leading figure in industrial design.

Under his guidance, his students have consistently excelled in prestigious competitions, including:

• 2023 Asian Compact Sedan Design Challenge (ACSDC) (Champions)
• 2022 Art of Wheels: Rim Design Challenge 2022 by Giant Light Metal Technology Malaysia (GLM) (1st runner-up)
• 2021 Water Pod Project for the James Dyson Design Competition (Champions)
• 2018 Invictus Project for the DRB Hicom Concept Car Design Competition (Champions)
• 2014 Elderly Design Competition (Champions)

Reflecting on his CiDE achievement, Saifullizan emphasised, “Receiving the CiDE certification underscores the profound impact of design, which goes beyond aesthetics. 

“It highlights the crucial role of creativity and functionality in solving real-world challenges, fostering innovation, and shaping individual and collective identities. This is the core philosophy we impart to our students at APU,” said Saifullizan. 

He attributes his success to a lifelong commitment to continuous learning, staying abreast of the latest industry trends, and gaining valuable real-world experience. 

“The journey to CiDE certification is an odyssey of embracing knowledge and challenging the status quo. It is not merely about design; it is about contributing to the future of industrial design.”

Saifullizan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to APU’s CEO, Datuk Parmjit Singh, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in his personal and professional growth.

He credits Datuk Parmjit’s encouragement as a driving force for both himself and the entire SoMAD team.

Saifullizan is among the 24 exceptional local designers who were honoured with the CiDE 2024 certification in December 2024.

The prestigious ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz; Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Deputy Secretary-General (Investment), Datuk Bahria Mohd. Tamil; MRM Director Mr Amirul Fadhli Che Ismail; CiDE Committee Chair, Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Ahmad Zainuddin; and the President and Group CEO of SIRIM Berhad, Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabiri Arshad. 

This prestigious recognition not only underscores Saifullizan’s exceptional talents but also reinforces APU’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in design education.