USM PENANG, 22 April 2026 – A remarkable triumph has unfolded at the Young Brainer Competition 2026, where a group of students from the Building Surveying programme of the School of Housing, Building and Planning (HBP), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), clinched the prestigious Gold Medal award at UiTM Puncak Alam.

The team, comprising Mohammad Afif Farhan Shaari, Wong Min Wei, Muhammad Afifi Fauzan Roduan, and Muhammad Afiq Thaqif Razali, showcased their innovative project titled “EcoFoam: Revolutionising Housing with Sustainable Waste-Based Concrete Blocks”, which captivated the attention of the judging panel and triumphed over a competitive field of 200 participants from higher learning institutions across Malaysia.

Under the mentorship of Associate Professor Sr. Ts. Dr. Md Azree Othuman Mydin and Sr. Nuzaihan Aras Agus Salim, the success of this team has further strengthened HBP's reputation in sustainable construction research in Malaysia, aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), which encourages the development of sustainable and innovative infrastructure.

Their mentorship provided a strong foundation for the students to turn their ideas into nationally recognised projects, reflecting HBP's commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing education that supports research and innovation.

By offering robust platforms and support for students to engage in research, HBP is training future researchers who will play a crucial role in advancing SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through sustainable construction and technological innovation.

The EcoFoam project not only addresses sustainability challenges in line with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) but also demonstrates how waste materials can be repurposed to produce more eco-friendly and cost-effective concrete blocks.

Innovations like this prove that HBP students are not only able to understand current issues but are also capable of creating practical solutions that have a positive impact on the nation's construction industry, thereby contributing to sustainable development in line with SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Md Azree, who is also the Dean of the School of HBP, stated, “As a dean, I am committed to leading by example, inspiring both faculty and students to achieve excellence.”

“This success highlights that with the right guidance, continuous support, and a collaborative spirit, our students can reach remarkable heights in research and innovation.

“The Young Brainer Competition 2026 provides undergraduates with a platform to showcase their research and creativity, fuelling their passion for advanced studies at the master’s and PhD levels. By offering these platforms, we nurture their aspirations and encourage them to contribute to global advancements in their fields,” he said.

Md Azree added “HBP is now focused on achieving the commitment covenanted to the university through its flagship programme, Next Gen Talent: Competition & Innovation.”

“This initiative is designed to create an ecosystem that promotes innovation through competitive support, accessible funding, and enhanced visibility of both staff and student achievements.

“Through Next Gen Talent, HBP aspires to be a champion at USM and to take the lead as a pioneer in driving groundbreaking research through competition and innovation.

“By providing the necessary tools, support, and platforms, HBP is laying the groundwork for future leaders who will play an instrumental role in advancing industry standards and contributing to global progress,” he emphasised.

He explained further, “By empowering undergraduate students to push the boundaries of research and creativity, HBP is setting new standards in planting a culture of excellence and pioneering thought leadership in the fields of sustainable construction and beyond.”

“The success of this team aligns with the broader goals of USM's HEBAT agenda, which focuses on producing holistic, entrepreneurial, balanced, articulate, and thinking individuals.

“The HEBAT agenda emphasises the development of students who are not only academically excellent but also equipped with the necessary skills to be leaders and innovators in their fields.

“By fostering an environment where students are encouraged to innovate, think critically, and engage in research, HBP embodies the HEBAT values in nurturing students who are prepared to lead the future of sustainable construction and technological innovation,” said Md Azree.

This victory also reflects the commitment of USM’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, who places great emphasis on fostering a research-minded culture among students.

The Vice-Chancellor often emphasises that to produce globally competitive professionals, a research-driven approach must be integrated from the early stages of higher education.

“This shows that USM not only focuses on theoretical learning but also encourages active participation in research that can contribute to industry and societal advancements.

“Research is not only fundamental to learning, but it also acts as a catalyst for innovation and the creation of new solutions that are relevant to current needs. This is part of our effort to ensure that USM graduates become leaders in their fields, who possess not only knowledge but also the ability to create change through research,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor went on to say, “This accomplishment also reflects HBP’s dedication to shaping researchers who excel not only academically but also possess high creativity and innovation to create solutions relevant to the current needs of industries and society.”

“Like many schools within the university, HBP has been nurturing a culture of research from the undergraduate level, thereby strengthening the university’s reputation as a competitive institution on the international stage.”

“With this achievement, HBP USM has demonstrated that they are not only producing professionals who are globally competitive, but also researchers who can drive significant change in the world of construction and sustainable development in the future,” he added.

Text: Digitalization Committee, School of Housing, Building and Planning, USM/Photo: Wong Min Wei & Mohammad Afif Farhan Shaari, School of Housing, Building and Planning, USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe