Three students from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) have left an indelible mark at Kuala Lumpur's first-ever Augmented Reality Festival, ARFestKL. Held at the bustling Golden Triangle from 30 August to 30 November 2024, the event featured over 30 interactive AR works across the city's iconic downtown locations.

APU students Chua Yan Jie, Lai Hawkin, and Liau Hui Wen, who are pursuing a Bachelor in Interactive Media and Immersive Technology (Honours) with a specialism in VR/AR, wowed the festival audience with their project, “Stella Cuteness at Starhill”. 

Their innovative creation was a standout, earning them 3rd place and the prestigious People's Choice Award, making them the only academic representatives to triumph over industry professionals. At the prize-giving ceremony held on 1 December 2024, the trio was awarded a cash prize of RM1,500.

Showcasing Stellar Creativity in Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle

Their project transformed Starhill into a whimsical experience, featuring a UFO that gracefully descended to release balloons adorned with Malaysian symbols—the tiger, hibiscus, and national flag. As the balloons floated, visitors were treated to a celebratory “Welcome to Malaysia” message, complete with vibrant confetti and ribbons. This heartwarming display epitomised the festival’s mission to make art more accessible and immersive. 

Click here for a whimsical experience - https://arfestkl.com/stella-cuteness-at-starhill/

A Career-Ready Collaboration

The trio’s success reflects their specialised expertise. Chua Yan Jie, driven by a passion for storytelling and immersive design, focused on leveraging AR to captivate audiences. Liau Hui Wen brought her artistic finesse to ensure the project was visually engaging, while Lai Hawkin’s advanced skills in 3D modelling and animation brought the concept to life.

Their mentor, Assistant Professor Ts Dr Siti Azreena Binti Mubin, APU’s XR Studio Lead, praised their achievement, stating: 

“Our students have truly excelled in demonstrating the potential of AR technology to create memorable experiences. Their outstanding achievement at ARFestKL showcases their ability to merge creativity and technical prowess, setting a benchmark for the future of immersive art.”

With this triumph, APU continues to solidify its reputation as a hub for nurturing tech-savvy talents capable of excelling on both academic and professional stages. The success of Chua, Liau, and Lai underscores the boundless possibilities of augmented reality in reshaping public spaces and enriching cultural experiences.