SoC Team Triumphs at SME Bank Sandbox Swiss Innovation Challenge 2024

A team of five exceptional students from the School of Computing (SoC) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has emerged as champions at the prestigious SME Bank Sandbox Swiss Innovation Challenge 2024 (SSSIC). Their innovative project, which combines cutting-edge technology with sustainable agriculture, earned them the top prize, further solidifying APU’s reputation as a leader in fostering future-ready talent.

The team, comprised of Teh Chen Ming, Chiah Ming Liang, Chan Hong Wei, Chai Waii Yuan, and Amelia Sow Jing Yi, clinched the coveted Champion title for their groundbreaking agrivoltaics solution. This innovation seamlessly integrates solar panels with an advanced monitoring system, empowering farmers to enhance both their income and crop yields. For their remarkable achievement, the students were awarded RM20,000 in prize money, along with a trophy, during the award ceremony held on 26 September 2024 at the Renaissance Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

Revolutionising Agriculture with Technology

The team’s project, aptly named FarmE: Innovative Agrivoltaics Solution for Sustainable Agriculture, stood out for its ingenious design that merges agricultural practices with renewable energy generation. Their system leverages a combination of predictive analytics, digital twin technology, and an information-sharing platform to create a highly efficient, data-driven approach to farming. By optimising land use through the dual-purpose integration of solar energy production and agricultural activities, the solution fosters a mutually beneficial ecosystem. This model benefits not only farmers by increasing productivity but also solar panel providers, creating a win-win scenario for sustainable development.

The agrivoltaics solution’s ability to monitor crop conditions and predict potential challenges in real-time ensures that farmers are better equipped to make data-driven decisions, ultimately boosting their yields and improving profitability. Additionally, the project’s digital twin-component provides a virtual simulation of the agricultural environment, allowing for enhanced precision and planning. The innovative approach reflects the growing importance of technology in addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the agricultural sector.

APU’s Mentorship Fueling Success

Behind the team’s success is the unwavering support of their mentors, whose guidance played a pivotal role in shaping the project’s development. Senior Lecturer of SoC, Ms Chong Mien May, alongside Ir Eur Ing Ts Dr Lau Chee Yong, Assistant Professor of the School of Engineering (SoE), and Associate Professor Dr Tan Chin Ike, Head of SoC, provided expert mentorship throughout the competition. Their dedication to nurturing the students' potential was key to helping them refine their concepts and bring them to life.

Dr Tan, who reflected on the students’ accomplishments, noted the significance of mentorship in driving innovation. “The triumph of our SoC team at SSSIC 2024 is a moment of immense pride for our institution and a testament to the transformative power of education and mentorship. Their agrivoltaics solution not only highlights the innovative spirit of our students but also underscores the crucial role that technology can play in creating sustainable agricultural practices. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this project will have on the agricultural sector, paving the way for a more sustainable future.”

A Platform for Innovation

The SME Bank Sandbox Swiss Innovation Challenge 2024 was a landmark event in the innovation and entrepreneurship space, attracting an impressive 439 submissions. After a rigorous selection process, 68 teams were shortlisted, with 19 finalists competing across two categories: the Open Category for start-ups and young companies, and the Tertiary Category for students from higher learning institutions.

The competition’s emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and social impact aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing the importance of addressing global challenges through innovative solutions.

The event was graced by the presence of YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, along with several other distinguished guests. Their participation underscored the importance of fostering an ecosystem of innovation that supports both young entrepreneurs and established businesses in Malaysia. 

APU continues to demonstrate its commitment to developing innovative solutions that address real-world challenges. The victory at SSSIC 2024 not only showcases the talent and dedication of its students but also reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into its curriculum and research initiatives. 

The success of the SoC team is a beacon of the promising future of sustainable technology. With continued mentorship and support, these students are set to lead the way in transforming industries and contributing to a more sustainable, technologically advanced world.