USM PENANG, 14 May 2025 – A Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) student celebrated a ‘golden’ moment at the recently concluded International STEM Innovation and Robot Battle Competition 2025 (iPRISMA25).

Nur Iwana Afiqah Mohd Nazimi, a third-year Building Engineering Technology student at the USM School of Housing, Building, and Planning (HBP), secured the coveted Gold Medal with her groundbreaking invention, the ‘Fabric Paving Block’ (FABAP).

FABAP is an innovative, eco-friendly solution that transforms recycled fabric waste into durable and sustainable paving blocks.

Her invention competed in the highly competitive ‘Category D: Materials Development, Green Technology, and Building Structure,’ one of six key categories in iPRISMA25.

After a rigorous final screening process, Nur Iwana’s innovation stood out for its originality and sustainability.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Siti Shahirah Saidin, Nur Iwana received invaluable technical and academic guidance throughout her journey.

The Dean of the School of Housing, Building, and Planning (HBP), Assoc. Prof. Sr. Ts. Dr. Md Azree Othuman Mydin, praised her achievement: "This gold medal not only honours and celebrates Nur Iwana’s exceptional talent and unwavering dedication but also reinforces USM’s position at the forefront of green technology and sustainable materials innovation."

He further emphasised USM’s commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and academic excellence, stating that her success inspires students worldwide and encourages future leaders to champion sustainability on the global stage.

"At HBP, we are deeply committed to nurturing student excellence. We strive to build an empowering ecosystem that encourages students to showcase their talents and creativity on prestigious innovation platforms.

“By doing so, we elevate their visibility at both the national and international levels, fostering a culture where groundbreaking ideas thrive," said Md Azree.

The competition, held from 7 to 8 May 2025, was organised by Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA (KKTM) Pasir Mas, in collaboration with the Pasir Mas District Education Office, to highlight the brightest young innovators from around the world.

USM and HBP remain dedicated to supporting and celebrating student excellence at every level, providing opportunities, mentorship, and platforms that enable students to reach their fullest potential and achieve outstanding success.

Source: Dr. Siti Shahirah Saidin, School of HBP, USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe