USM PENANG, 25 May 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) students from the School of Housing, Building and Planning (HBP) recently represented the University at the 17^th RISM International Surveying Conference for Undergraduates (ISCU) 2025, held at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Seri Iskandar in Perak, from 16 - 17 May 2025.

It was a remarkable achievement for the students there, with a total win of four awards:  Gold (one), Silver (two), and the prestigious Best of the Best Award.

Organised by the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM), this annual event provides a platform for undergraduates to present innovative research related to the surveying profession and the built environment.

The winners are:

• Gold Award for Research Paper & Best of the Best Award: Paper Subtheme 1: Education and Skill Development / Student: Farahniesa Raman / Supervisor: Dr. Siti Hamidah Hussain
• Silver Award for Research Paper: Paper Subtheme 3: Built Environment Sustainability and Conservation / Student: Tan Wei Ze / Supervisor: Dr. Izyan Yahaya
• Silver Award for Poster: Poster Subtheme 5: Digital Construction Technology / Student: Ching Zhi Yi / Supervisor: Sr. Nurzaihan Aras Agus Salim.

These awards not only highlighted the talent and hard work of the students involved, but also reflected the strength of their academic preparation and mentorship.

Securing four awards at a prestigious national-level conference is a commendable feat, especially considering the competitive nature of the event and the wide range of participants from institutions across the country.

The recognition received at ISCU 2025 underscores the importance of nurturing critical thinking, research skills, and innovation among future professionals in the field of surveying and the built environment.

The Dean of the School of Housing, Building, and Planning (HBP), Assoc. Prof. Sr. Ts. Dr. Md Azree Othuman Mydin, praised their achievement: “This outstanding performance at ISCU 2025 is a proud moment for the School of HBP.”

“The achievements demonstrate the high calibre of students emerging from the school and reflect the quality of teaching and supervision provided by the academic staff.

“Such recognition not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also reinforces the school’s role in contributing to the advancement of knowledge in surveying, sustainability, and digital technology in construction,” he said.  

Md Azree added, “It is encouraging to see students engaging deeply with contemporary issues, from education and skill development to environmental sustainability and digital transformation. These areas are critical for the future of the built environment sector.”

He strongly reaffirmed USM’s unwavering commitment to cultivating the next generation of talent and academic brilliance, highlighting that the achievements of these students in igniting their passion and preparing them to rise as bold champions on the global stage.

“At HBP, our dedication to nurturing student excellence is at the core of everything we do. We are creating a dynamic and empowering environment that inspires students to unleash their talents and creativity on the world’s most prestigious research competition platforms.

“Through this, we boost their visibility both nationally and internationally, cultivating a vibrant culture where revolutionary ideas don’t just take root, they soar,” said Md Azree.

“The school of HBP will continue to support and provide an environment that nurtures critical inquiry, creativity, and professional growth, preparing graduates to meet the evolving challenges of the industry.

“This success inspires all students and staff to maintain the high standards and to continue pursuing excellence in both research and practice,” he added.   

Text: Dr. Izyan Binti Yahaya, School of HBP, USM