In a remarkable display of technological creativity and environmental advocacy, Tan Jing Jie, a Doctor of Philosophy (Engineering) candidate from UTAR Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES), earned recognition by securing the third runner-up position at the IOTA Hackathon Malaysia 2025. Held from 19 to 21 July 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, the hackathon was jointly organised by the IOTA Ecosystem DLT Foundation and Growth Charger as part of Malaysia Blockchain Week.
The three-day hackathon attracted developers, blockchain innovators, and university students from across the region, offering a total prize pool of USD10,000. Participants were mentored by industry professionals and IOTA engineers, gaining hands-on experience in developing real-world Web3 solutions. The event was hosted at two prominent venues: the first two days took place at Xsolla Curine Academy in KL Eco City, where teams formed, prototypes were built, and expert guidance provided. The final stage, known as Demo Day, was held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, where the Top 10 teams pitched their innovations to a distinguished panel of judges.
Tan’s winning entry, a gamified environmental platform titled Ecomon, captured the jury’s attention for its visionary integration of blockchain technology with sustainable practices. Inspired by popular location-based games like Pokémon Go, Ecomon rewards users for engaging in eco-conscious actions such as recycling. The platform blends augmented reality (AR), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and real-life incentives to encourage environmentally responsible behaviour through interactive gameplay.
“Joining the hackathon was a chance to showcase how Web3 can drive real-world impact,” shared Tan. “I’m thrilled and grateful that my game Ecomon won—it’s a fun, Pokémon Go–style experience that rewards players for recycling and sustainable actions. This recognition validates my belief that gaming and blockchain can inspire positive environmental change.”
The hackathon’s final stage was hosted at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, where the top 10 teams pitched their prototypes before a panel of experts and invited guests. Tan’s success earned him USD 1,500 and significant visibility among blockchain investors and innovators, highlighting UTAR’s emphasis on nurturing research that fuses innovation with societal value.
His accomplishment not only exemplifies academic excellence and entrepreneurial spirit but also aligns closely with UTAR’s mission of contributing to sustainable development through impactful research and education. By transforming complex blockchain technologies into accessible, solution-oriented applications, Tan’s work represents a forward-thinking approach to interdisciplinary learning and innovation.
Third from left: Tan Jing Jie
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