USM HYDROLINK TEAM AMONG TOP THREE IN ASIA PACIFIC SOUTH, READY TO COMPETE IN THE UNITED STATES

NIBONG TEBAL, 11 November 2025 - The USM Hydrolink team from the Engineering Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), has once again brought pride to the university by demonstrating excellence in engineering innovation at the international level.

The team secured a place among the top three teams at the AAKRUTI Innovation Competition 2025, Asia Pacific South (AP South) Geo Finale, which was held online on Sunday, 9 November 2025.

This achievement qualifies USM Hydrolink to represent Malaysia at the International Finale, scheduled to take place in person in Houston, Texas, United States, from 1 to 4 February 2026.

Upon receiving the news, the Director of the School of Engineering, Professor Ir. Dr. Mariatti Jaafar @ Mustapha, expressed her appreciation for the team’s outstanding performance.

“Congratulations to the USM Hydrolink team for securing a place among the top three at the AAKRUTI Innovation Competition 2025 AP South Geo Finale, and for qualifying to represent Malaysia at the International level!” she said.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Salman Abu Mansor from the School of Mechanical Engineering, who also serves as the team advisor, expressed his gratitude that his mentees have achieved a top-three finish this time.

He noted that this accomplishment is the result of the team’s hard work, dedication, and strong collaboration.

“They are now preparing to face the next challenge at the International Finale, which will be held in person in Houston, Texas, US, in early February 2026,” he said.

“May the USM Hydrolink team achieve outstanding success there, bringing pride to PPKM and USM on the global stage through the 3DEXPERIENCE WORLD competition,” he added.

He also expressed hope that the team’s journey in the international competition will be supported by all parties, enabling them to achieve excellent results and inspire future generations.

This prestigious innovation competition is organized by SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE through IME Technology Sdn. Bhd., bringing together the best teams from the Asia Pacific region in engineering and innovative design.

Representing the Asia Pacific South, the USM Hydrolink team will be joined by two other top teams from the Singapore Institute of Technology and Politeknik Caltex Riau, Indonesia.

Text: Siti Faizah Abd Halim / Photo: Courtesy of Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Salman Abu Mansor