USM PENANG, 1 June 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to reinforce its global standing in sustainable innovation and impactful research.

Recently on 25 May 2026, Wong Min Wei, an undergraduate from the Building Surveying programme at the School of Housing, Building and Planning (HBP), distinguished herself by securing the prestigious Gold Medal Award at INVENTA 2026, the International Exhibition of Novel Ventures, Engineering, New Technology & Applications.

Under the supervision of Associate Professor Sr Ts. Dr. Md Azree Othuman Mydin, Min Wei’s project entitled “ECOBUILD: Innovative Sandwich Panel Systems for Greener Construction” garnered high commendation from the panel of judges.

The innovation is closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

The prestigious international exhibition gathered participants from universities, research institutions, and industry players from various countries, showcasing cutting-edge innovations across engineering, science, technology, and sustainable development disciplines.

Competing among numerous outstanding inventions, ECOBUILD distinguished itself through its practical application, environmental sustainability value, and strong potential to transform the future of green construction practices globally.

The award-winning innovation introduces an advanced sandwich panel system designed to improve thermal insulation, energy efficiency, and overall sustainability in building construction.

By promoting environmentally responsible materials and energy-saving building systems, the innovation contributes significantly towards reducing carbon emissions and enhancing sustainable infrastructure development.

The project also supports global aspirations for climate-resilient cities and greener built environments.

In line with SDG 9, ECOBUILD demonstrates how innovation and research can drive sustainable industrial development and resilient infrastructure.

The innovation also addresses SDG11 by promoting sustainable urban development through environmentally friendly construction technologies, while supporting SDG13 through climate-conscious design strategies aimed at minimising environmental impact.

According to Md Azree who is also the Dean of HBP, the achievement reflects the growing capability of USM students to produce impactful innovations capable of addressing pressing global challenges.

“This success is evidence to Min Wei’s enthusiasm, perseverance, and passion for research and innovation. Today’s construction industry is rapidly evolving towards sustainability and low-carbon development. Innovations such as ECOBUILD are important in supporting global sustainable development goals while creating a greener and more resilient future for society,” Azree said.

He added, “The achievement also reflects HBP’s continuous commitment towards cultivating a strong research and innovation culture among undergraduate students.”

“Through active involvement in research-based learning, innovation competitions, and sustainable development initiatives, HBP aims to nurture future graduates who are not only academically excellent but also capable of contributing meaningful solutions to real-world challenges.

“The school strongly believes that exposing students to research and innovation activities at an early stage can enhance critical thinking, creativity, leadership, and global competitiveness,” he said further.  

This remarkable achievement is also in line with the aspiration of the Vice-Chancellor of USM, Professor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed in empowering a strong research, innovation, and sustainability culture among students, particularly at the undergraduate level, towards producing future-ready graduates with global impact.

The success further reinforces USM’s standing as a leading institution in advancing research excellence, sustainability, and innovation-driven education.

It also reflects the university’s commitment towards nurturing future talents capable of producing high-impact solutions aligned with global sustainable development priorities.

Text & Poster: School of Housing, Building and Planning (HBP), USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe