Two APU teams representing Malaysia at the international Asia-Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards 2024 held in Brunei gained invaluable international exposure, inspiring them to push their innovative boundaries.

The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) proudly sent two talented teams to the international Asia-Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards 2024, held in Brunei from 4th to 7th December. 

The event, organised by the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) in collaboration with the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) and InfoCom Federation Brunei (IFB), underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological excellence.

APICTA Awards, an annual hallmark of innovation and creativity, brings together 17 member economies from the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, the People’s Republic of China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Macao, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The event returns to Brunei after 12 years, having left an inedible mark when first hosted in 2012 by introducing initiatives that have since become cherished traditions in APICTA events.

Following their success at the Malaysia Digital Tertiary APICTA 2024, where they both earned Merit Awards, the APU teams are now representing Malaysia at the global level.

The first team, from the School of Computing (SoC), presented ‘WayangWayang 3.0: Malaysia’s Cultural Tapestry in Shadow Puppetry’, a captivating project that breathes new life into Malaysian heritage through digital innovation. 

WayangWayang 3.0 designed by Artificial Intelligent (AI) students, James Wong Chai Fuu and Johnson Chin Hong Wei in their final year.

Chai Fuu shared his experience saying that “Representing APU at APICTA 2024 in Brunei was an unforgettable journey” as he and his team members met incredibly talented individuals and witnessed projects that truly blew their minds.

“The event was a testament to the incredible creativity and innovation thriving across our region. I am deeply grateful to APU for sponsoring this incredible opportunity and to my mentor, Assoc Prof Ts Dr Vinothini Kasinathan, for her unwavering guidance throughout this journey.”

The second team, hailing from the School of Engineering (SoE), showcased the ‘Carbon Neutral Smart Solar Dehydrator for Agricultural Products’, an eco-friendly solution promising a sustainable future for farmers.

Mechatronic Engineering student, Chong Chee Kin whose ‘Carbon Neutral Smart Solar Dehydrator’ project earned a Merit Award, expressed his gratitude saying that “Participating in APICTA 2024 was an incredible experience. 

“I had the privilege of meeting other talented delegates from across the Asia-Pacific region, exchanging ideas and expanding our knowledge.

“I am especially thankful to my supervisors, Asst Prof Ir Ts Dr Alexander Chee Hon Cheong and Asst Prof Ir Eur Ing Ts Dr Lau Chee Yong, for their unwavering support.”

Participating in these international competitions provided both teams with invaluable global exposure. 

They learned from the best in the field, fostering a drive to continually push the boundaries of their innovation. 

These experiences exemplify APU’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a culture of innovation, creativity, and excellence among its students, equipping them to excel on the global stage.