SEDA

INNOVATION

CHALLENGE

2026

"Imagine The Future, Innovate The Vision, Build The Reality"
Register Here
Download Guideline

Introduction

The SEDA Innovation Challenge (SIC) is a competition held to unearth brilliant ideas and innovations in the field of today’s technology that are used to catalyze sustainabilty efforts in Malaysia. To make this programme a success, SEDA Malaysia will collaborate with academic partners, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) & Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).

 

Strategic partners will serve as advisors, implementers, and technical assessors, leveraging their subject-matter expertise and proven experience in organizing and evaluating similar competitions.

 

The competition will take place from January 2026 to August 2026 and is open to youth aged 18 to 30 who are enrolled in institutions registered with the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE). Eligible participants include both Malaysian citizens and expatriates currently residing in Malaysia, provided they meet the specified age and institutional requirements. Participating institutions include public and private higher education institutions (IPTA and IPTS), polytechnics, and community colleges, encompassing diploma, pre-university, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels.

Objective

Innovative Technologies

We are seeking cutting-edge conceptual solutions and innovation that harness the power of renewable energy that support sustainability efforts.

Sustainability

Embrace sustainability at the core of your innovations, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact, enhancing efficiency, and promoting responsible resource management.

Collaborative Spirit

Foster collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches to address challenges and unlock new opportunities in sustainability.

Scalability

Demonstrate the scalability and feasibility of your solutions, with the potential for widespread adoption.

Categories

CATEGORY A

“ INNOVATE THE FUTURE “

Focus on idea development, early stage concept and creative thinking

 

EXPECTED OUTPUT

Clear explanation of the problem, solution, and potential impact.

CATEGORY B

“ BUILD THE FUTURE “

Focus on early functional prototype, model, simulation or demonstrator

 

EXPECTED OUTPUT

A working prototype, model, or simulation that demonstrates the idea.

Evidence of testing and functionality.

Workflow

  • REGISTRATION
    30 Dec 2025 - 31 Mar 2026
    Online registration via Google Form
  • VIDEO SUBMISSION
    20 Apr - 26 Apr 2026
    3 minutes video pitch via Youtube
  • DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
    15 June - 21 June 2026
    Full documentation via Google Form
  • INNOVATION EXHIBITION
    12 Aug 2026 (2nd Day ISES)
    Final presentation of shortlisted teams
  • AWARD CEREMONY
    The Winner

Prize

COMPETITION PRIZES

Big ideas deserve big rewards. Win cash prizes, certificates, and medals — your innovation, your recognition!

Best Video Award

RM500

For the team whose video sparked ideas for a better future! This award celebrates creative storytelling that clearly shows how their innovation makes the world more sustainable while keeping us hooked start to finish.

Best Presenter Award

RM500

For the changemakers who brought their sustainable idea to life through their presentation! This award goes to the presenter(s) who explained their innovation with confidence, passion, and a clear vision for a greener future.

Best Poster Award

RM300

For the poster that made sustainability look cool! This award recognizes eye-catching design and smart visuals that clearly communicate an innovative solution for a more sustainable world.

Download

Access the documents below for guidance on the application:

No.DocumentDownload
1.FAQ
2.Guideline
3.Stage 2 – Proposal TemplateComing Soon
4.Scoring RubricComing Soon

Announcements

SIC 2026, Open for registration!