THANKS to an ingenious sponge with oil-absorbing water-repellent and magnetic properties, SMK Kubang Bemban, Kelantan, was crowned the champion of the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow (SFT) 2023 challenge.
Dubbed the Magnetic HydroOleoGuard Sponge, the project offered an effective solution for addressing oil spills and metal debris pollution.
SMK Sultan Ismail, Johor, was awarded the second prize for Historeeze – an interactive learning application that makes learning history engaging and accessible; while Mara Junior Science College (MRSM) Bagan Datuk, Perak, came in third for an educational application that analyses the individual learning styles of each student and monitors their progress to enhance classroom performance and alleviate the workload of teachers.
SMK Puteri Wilayah, Kuala Lumpur, and SMJK Kwang Hua, Selangor, were awarded consolation prizes for their apartment with an integrated recycling system and a solar-powered robot designed for sustainable fishing practices, respectively.
The competition, now in its fourth year, aimed to inspire students to become adept problem-solvers by applying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) knowledge to solve pressing societal issues.
The winning teams, distinguished by their dedication, innovation and ingenuity, presented impressive solutions that addressed three central themes: education and learning, sustainability and environment, and health and well-being.
Praising the participants, Samsung Malaysia Electronics corporate affairs director Datuk Roh Jae Yeol said SFT is a platform dedicated to nurturing and empowering the younger generation, and facilitating their growth, learning, and pursuit of STEM careers.
“This year’s participants impressed us with their problem-solving abilities and execution, inspiring everyone who witnessed their work.
“These high achievers not only devised innovative solutions, but also effectively addressed pressing real-life challenges within our communities.
“We take pride in the dedication and creativity displayed by these young minds, as their projects stand as a testament to the transformative power of STEM education in driving meaningful change within our society,” he said in a press release dated Jan 16.
The SFT competition was divided into multiple phases, with the finalists advancing to the December finale, where they competed for Samsung products worth almost RM90,000.
Describing it as a privilege to to witness the exceptional talent and innovation displayed by the young participants, Universiti Malaya (UM) STEM Centre director Dr Mas Sahidayana Mohktar said their prototypes were a testament to their deep understanding of real-world challenges and their ability to deliver practical, impactful solutions.
“The competition highlighted their dedication and creativity, and I am confident that these aspiring innovators will make a positive impact on our society.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of this competition for their outstanding achievements, and I look forward to their continued growth and contributions towards a brighter future for our nation,” said Mas Sahidayana, who was an SFT judge.During the competition, mentors, including employees from Samsung Malaysia Electronics and UM, supported and guided the semi-finalist teams through their journey.
The winners will have the opportunity to further develop their projects and gain valuable insights from professionals in their respective fields, under the guidance of the dedicated mentors.
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