Second-runner up at UTAR x ABMB Business Pitch Challenge 2024

A team of Software Engineering students from UTAR secured the second runner-up place at the UTAR x ABMB Business Pitch Challenge 2024 held on 13 December 2024 at Menara Multi-Purpose, Alliance Bank Berhad. The competition, themed Entrepreneurial Ventures with ESG Initiatives, showcased innovative business proposals aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The winning team comprised Choo Jia Zheng, Low Liana, Yong Ting Wei, Wong Yuan Zhen, and Liew Ke Ying from the Department of Computing, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES). Their project, titled Integrating Community and Ecology to Enhance Local Fish Production and Economy Diversification, impressed the judges with its focus on sustainable fish production through urban aquafarming.

The project proposed using innovative recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and real-time water quality monitoring technology to optimise underutilised residential spaces while reducing overfishing. This scalable model aimed to empower communities through supplemental income opportunities, enhance food security, and align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.

“We joined this competition to showcase our vision for sustainable urban aquafarming and promote ESG-driven initiatives,” shared team leader Choo. “Winning second runner-up is a tremendous honour, validating our efforts and inspiring us to continue innovating in aquaculture. This recognition highlights the significance of our research in addressing food security and motivates us to scale our solutions.”

The team secured a cash prize of RM600, a certificate of recognition, and a goodie bag filled with exclusive items. This achievement reflects their dedication, creativity, and strategic thinking in addressing sustainability challenges through innovative business solutions.

Central to their success was the mentorship of their lecturer, Ts Dr Sugumaran Nallusamy, whose expertise in sustainable technology and business development guided the team throughout the competition. Dr Sugumaran provided invaluable insights into project planning, proposal refinement, and technical implementation, ensuring that the team’s business pitch met both industry and environmental standards.

“Our mentor’s continuous support and constructive feedback were crucial in transforming our initial concept into a comprehensive business proposal,” said Choo. “His guidance helped us identify potential challenges and develop practical, scalable solutions that aligned with ESG principles.”

From left: Yong Ting Wei, Wong Yuan Zhen, Dr Sugumaran, Low Liana and Choo Jia Zheng