NextUp Hackathon 2025

The Department of Computing and Information Technology (DCIT), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) Johor Branch, proudly participated in the NextUp Hackathon 2025, a university-level innovation competition organised by the iSpark, Centre for Business Incubation & Entrepreneurial Ventures (CBIEV) and powered by GATETIC. The event was held on 3 December 2025, at the Auditorium, TTSS, TAR UMT KL Main Campus, where students from various faculties and branches gathered to showcase their creativity, digital competence, and entrepreneurial spirit. The competition aimed to foster innovation and problem-solving through experiential learning, encouraging participants to design impactful solutions aligned with emerging technological needs. 

Representing TAR UMT Johor Branch, five student teams comprising 10 students took part under the supervision of Ms. Nuur Shuhada Mohd Najib, Dr. Leong Pui Huang, and Dr. Sam Yet Huat. The students who participated were Lee Zhi Hua, Chia Yuxuan, Katherine Ng Kai Qing, Tay Yu Lin, Low Nam Lee, Lee Song Yan, Haerine Deepak Singh, Lee Kin Hang, Chia Tongen, and Chia Yuzhe. All teams demonstrated strong commitment, teamwork, and resilience throughout the development and pitching phases. Among the participants, Lee Zhi Hua (JRSD) and Chia Yuxuan (JRSD) delivered an exceptional project titled AI Bird Strike Detection System, which showcased their technical proficiency and innovative thinking. Their outstanding performance earned them the Gold Medal, a remarkable achievement that brought recognition and pride to TAR UMT Johor. 

The competition was evaluated by esteemed judges Mr. Teo Chee Boon (Business Director, Global Entrepreneur X Sdn. Bhd.), Ms. Kay Sik Cheong Lee (Entrepreneur, Emulab Sdn. Bhd.), and Adjunct Professor Lawrence Yip (Chief Executive, Trademark2u Intellectual Property). Through this competition, students gained valuable experience in entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and strategic presentation under competitive conditions. Participation in the NextUp Hackathon 2025 provided meaningful exposure to real-world challenges and strengthened the students’ capabilities in creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. The accomplishments of DCIT students reflect the department’s ongoing commitment to cultivating skilled, innovative, and future-ready graduates.