USM PENANG, 6 November 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) today hosted the USM ‘INNOZILLA 2024’ innovation exhibition and competition, showcasing groundbreaking technology and innovations that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and gathering participants, experts, industry leaders, and stakeholders committed to a sustainable future.

Co-organised with the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) and in partnership with Cradle Fund Sdn. Bhd., TusStar, JCI, and the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), USM INNOZILLA 2024 featured 188 inventions (143 displayed physically and 45 virtually) from various schools, colleges, universities, and startups across Penang, Perak, Kedah, Kelantan, and Pahang, with international participation from Indonesia and Singapore.

With the theme “Bridging Innovation Between Academia, Young Innovator, Government, Industry, and Community for Sustainable Development”, the two-day event brought participants together to compete in two categories namely Vanguard for more advanced inventors, and Trailblazer for emerging innovators to encourage a broad range of creative ideas and solutions.

Present at the officiating ceremony was the Penang Deputy Chief Minister II and Exco for Human Capital Development, Science, and Technology, YB Jagdeep Singh Deo Karpal Singh.

In his opening speech, Jagdeep emphasised that initiatives like INNOZILLA help to create a nurturing environment for future talent and drive innovation across various sectors.

“I am thrilled to see young innovators from primary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities participating, as these young minds represent the future leaders of our state and nation, and we must provide them with the skills, resources, and inspiration needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world,” he said.

Jagdeep added that Penang’s position as a hub for semiconductor and electronic industries enables it to attract cutting-edge technology and high-value investments, transforming innovative ideas into practical applications for global markets.

He also remarked that events such as INNOZILLA showcase Penang’s technological strengths and highlight its role as a dynamic innovation centre capable of tackling complex global challenges.

Jagdeep extended his congratulations to all participants, noting that their hard work, dedication, and excellence, whether in labs, classrooms, or industries contribute to a future where Penang stands as a beacon of sustainable, inclusive innovations.

Meanwhile, USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed welcomed all attendees, and describing INNOZILLA as a vibrant ecosystem that fosters knowledge-sharing, talent scouting, and collaboration between researchers and industry.

“Together, we can ensure that our research and innovation translate into impactful solutions that benefit society, and I am confident this event will showcase our best research, sparking future collaborations for sustainable development,” said Abdul Rahman.

USM INNOZILLA represents a significant step forward in promoting closer ties between academia and industry, contributing to Malaysia's goals for economic growth and innovation through collaborative, sustainable solutions.

The programme also featured keynote speeches and forums with key figures contributing to a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.

Also present were the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab; USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Industry and Community Network, Professor Dr. Azlan Amran; USM INNOZILLA Project Director who is also the Centre for Innovation and Consultation Director, Professor Ir. Dr. Srimala Sreekantan; and principal officers of USM.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi, Centre for Innovation and Consultation, USM/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa