SEGi made a strong impact at the Petrobots Hackathon 2025, held on 15-16 February at Universiti Teknologi Petronas, where teams from the Tic Tech Toe Club tackled real-world industry challenges through technology-driven innovation. Competing against some of the most talented students in IT and Computer Science, participants had just 48 hours to develop solutions that aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), pushing the boundaries of creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise.
Representing SEGi, two teams designed AI-powered, impact-driven solutions aimed at addressing global challenges. One team developed the AI-powered Health System Checker, an intelligent health monitoring system that leverages AI to assess and track medical conditions with greater efficiency. The second team introduced the Smart Bin, a cutting-edge waste management system designed to improve sustainability and waste disposal efficiency. With reports predicting that AI in healthcare will be worth over USD 187 billion by 2030 and that smart waste management can reduce landfill waste by up to 30%, these projects are more than just student innovations—they are potential solutions to pressing global issues.
During the intensive pitching session, participants presented their projects to industry leaders from Murata Electronics, RunCloud Cyberjaya, Kejuruteraan Elmek, and Infinecs System Sdn. Bhd.. Judges assessed the teams based on innovation, feasibility, and real-world application, offering valuable feedback that bridged the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. With the digital economy projected to contribute over 25% to Malaysia’s GDP by, fostering industry collaboration through initiatives like this ensures students gain practical exposure and hands-on problem-solving skills to thrive in the tech sector.
Although SEGi’s teams did not secure a top-three position, their participation was a major achievement, positioning SEGi College Penang as a hub for future-ready, competitive tech talent. Beyond the competition, the experience provided students with invaluable industry insights, direct engagement with leading tech professionals, and a realistic glimpse into high-pressure, fast-paced development environments. Events like these are essential in developing the critical thinking, adaptability, and technical expertise required for careers in AI, sustainability, and digital transformation.
The Petrobots Hackathon aligns directly with Quality Education (SDG 4) by integrating real-world challenges into student learning, ensuring they graduate with skills that match industry needs. By designing solutions that address healthcare and sustainability, the event also advances Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), reflecting SEGi’s commitment to driving impactful change through technology.
As digital transformation reshapes industries, SEGi remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. With AI, IoT, and smart technology becoming integral to global development, initiatives like these ensure that students are not just participants in the digital revolution, but pioneers of it.
This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
• Quality Education (SDG 4)
• Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3)
• Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
