KUCHING: Three Diploma in Civil Engineering students of i-CATS University College were crowned champions at the Recycled Waste Innovation and Invention Competition, held at UiTM Sarawak Branch (Samarahan Campus 1) on Friday (May 10).
The event, themed ‘Innovation Technology Towards Sustainable Tomorrow’ showcased the innovative prowess of students from higher education institutions across Kuching and Kota Samarahan.
The triumphant team, known as i-CATS Innovators, comprised of Chong Jia Ning, Kong Kei Hing, and Gregory Boyd Joel.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Siti Hasyyati Drahman, they impressed the judges with their project titled ‘EnviEco Wall Panel’.
This innovative solution uses plastic and glass waste to create environmentally friendly, durable, and versatile wall panels, addressing both the issues of waste pollution and sustainable construction materials.
The competition, jointly organized by the Sarawak Environment Department, Sarawak Energy Berhad, and UiTM Sarawak Branch, featured 23 teams from public and private higher education institutions.
Each team presented their unique and practical designs focused on recycling and environmental sustainability.
The i-CATS Innovators team was awarded a cash prize of RM1,000 and a certificate for their outstanding achievement.
Their success is expected to pave the way for more opportunities in engineering and innovation, inspiring increased participation in future recycling and sustainability projects.
The prize-giving ceremony, held on May 11, was officiated by Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development, Datuk Len Talif Salleh.
The event coincided with the Sarawak State Level Earth Day Celebration 2024, themed “Planet vs Plastic.”
This initiative aims to raise awareness among students, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
The Recycled Waste Innovation and Invention Competition serves as a vital platform for educating the younger generation about sustainable practices and resource management.
The success of i-CATS Innovators highlights the potential of student-led innovations to contribute positively to environmental sustainability, offering inspiration for continued efforts in this field.
