USM TEAMS QUALIFIED AS FINALISTS IN TEKNOFEST INTERNATIONAL ROCKET COMPETITION IN TURKEY

NIBONG TEBAL, 31 August 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is proud to announce that two student teams from its School of Aerospace Engineering — the WAU Rocketry Club and the USM Rocket Team — have qualified as finalists in the prestigious Teknofest Rocket Competition (A-Group, International Category – minimum 8,000 ft), scheduled to take place in Nevşehir, Turkey.

This outstanding achievement marks a significant milestone for Malaysia, as both teams secured their spots in the finals following a rigorous and highly competitive selection process.

The journey to the finals involved multiple evaluation stages, including the Preliminary Design Report, Critical Design Report, and Launch Readiness Level assessment.

Only after excelling in each phase were the teams selected to participate in the final round, which includes a live rocket launch in Turkey.

The teams will depart from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on 1 September 2025 to represent Malaysia on the global stage, joining top university rocketry teams from around the world.

USM has a strong track record in international rocketry competitions.

In 2022, the WAU Rocketry Club became the first Malaysian team to qualify for the Spaceport America Cup, where they delivered a commendable performance.

Their continued success serves as a source of inspiration for Malaysian students pursuing excellence in aerospace, innovation, and advanced engineering.

A pre-departure ceremony was held to honour the teams, attended by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Industry and Community Network, Professor Dr. Azlan Amran, who is Exercising the Functions of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Student Development Affairs and Alumni; and Dean of the School of Aerospace Engineering, Associate Professor Dr. Elmi Abu Bakar.  

Also present were the teams’ advisors – Dr. Mohammad Nishat Akhtar (WAU Rocketry Club) and Dr. Sarjit Singh Sidhu Junior (USM Rocket Team) – who have provided invaluable guidance throughout the teams’ journey.

Azlan expressed his pride and support, stating, “This is a momentous occasion not only for USM but for Malaysia. I encourage our students to give their utmost effort. Their success reflects the capability of our young talents to compete and excel on the international stage.”

Echoing this sentiment, Elmi added: “This achievement is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and perseverance of our students. It is a proud moment that enhances Malaysia’s visibility in the global aerospace community.”

As the teams prepare for their final launch, USM reaffirms its commitment to cultivating world-class talent in science, technology, and innovation, while empowering the next generation of engineers to thrive in international arenas.

Text & Photo: School of Aerospace Engineering, USM