News and photos Dr. Chuah Lai Fatt
KULIM, 7 July 2026: An innovation team from Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), under the supervision of Ts. Dr Chuah Lai Fatt, achieved a remarkable milestone by winning two Gold Medal Awards at the International Innovation & Exhibition Fair 2026 (IIEF 2026), organised by Kolej MARA Kulim, and the Virtual Innovation Competition (VIC) 2026, organised by Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).
The award-winning team, comprising Teh Ru Wei and Lee Jia Ying, earned recognition for its innovative project, Ship Energy Efficiency Solution App, reflecting its commitment to advancing sustainable and technology-driven solutions for the maritime industry.
Both IIEF 2026 and VIC 2026 brought together participants from higher education institutions and organisations to showcase innovative ideas and technological advancements across various disciplines. The team’s project received high commendation from the judging panels for its significant contribution to maritime sustainability and digital transformation.
The Ship Energy Efficiency Solution App is a digital platform designed to support carbon compliance management and enhance energy efficiency within the maritime industry. It enables ship operators to monitor operational performance, reduce carbon emissions, and comply with international regulations in line with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Net-Zero 2050 targets. The solution promotes more sustainable, efficient, and data-driven maritime operations while supporting the industry’s transition towards greener shipping practices.
The double gold achievement reflects the team’s dedication to research, innovation, and the development of practical solutions to address contemporary industry challenges. It also underscores UUM’s continued commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and producing impactful research with real-world applications.
The university extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ts. Dr Chuah Lai Fatt, Teh Ru Wei, and Lee Jia Ying on this outstanding accomplishment. Their success not only brings honour to UUM but also reinforces the university’s reputation for excellence in innovation and research at both the national and international levels.
