Five Teams Selected For UMS-Neurogine Technology Talent Hub 2024 In Labuan

LABUAN, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- Five exceptional teams have advanced to the final round of the inaugural UMS-Neurogine Technology Talent Hub 2024 (T2H 2024), a competition organised by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Neurogine Sdn Bhd.

In a joint statement to Bernama today, UMS and Neurogine said the event aims to nurture technology, finance, and marketing talent in Sabah and Labuan.

The finalist teams were chosen for their innovative solutions, market viability and potential societal impact. Each team received a RM1,000 grant to further develop their projects in line with T2H 2024’s theme, “Ideas, Innovate and Inspire.” 

Projects range from blockchain-based applications to the internet-of-things (IoT)-driven solutions for agriculture and logistics.

Among the finalists, Team Eight proposed a blockchain platform for automotive supply chain management, while Team 14 designed FindXTech, an independent long-range tracking system. 

Team Two focused on a hydroponic greenhouse with IoT monitoring; Team 13 developed MyPaddychain for paddy subsidy management; and Team 6 introduced a VR (virtual reality) crowdfunding platform with blockchain integration.

Teams will present their projects to a panel of esteemed judges in December, with the winner receiving RM10,000, while second and third place winner will get RM8,000 and RM5,000 respectively. 

The judging panel, chaired by Assoc Prof Dr. Geoffrey Harvey Tanakinjal and Dr. Mohd Hanafi Ahmad Hijazi from UMS, consists of industry and academic experts.

“This competition has highlighted the depth of young talent and their potential to drive technological entrepreneurship in Labuan and Sabah,” said Dr. Tanakinjal. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Hanafi was echoed this sentiment, noting the diverse applications presented, including blockchain, artificial intelligence and sustainability-focused solutions.

Neurogine chief executive officer (CEO) Owen Chen emphasised the importance of nurturing talent in technology, finance and marketing. 

"We are excited to support these future leaders and to contribute to evaluating their innovative ideas," he said.

He said the maritime and fintech sectors also expressed enthusiasm for the initiative. 

Labuan Shipyard CEO Shahrul Effendy commented on the critical need for digital transformation in maritime, while Malaysia Fintech Association advisor Farah Jaafar noted the importance of nurturing talent to drive fintech advancements in Malaysia.

The T2H 2024 finale will take place on Dec 11 at the UMS Labuan International Campus, marking a key milestone in fostering a technology-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem in Labuan and Sabah.

-- BERNAMA