The future of Malaysia’s digital scene just had its big reveal, and it came from a bunch of brilliant kids who aren’t even old enough to vote yet!
The Digital Innovator Programme (DIP) Open Day at Kolej Permata Pintar, UKM, Seremban Campus, felt like stepping into a tech playground built by prodigies. Ideas, gadgets, and clever digital creations filled the space, many of them impressive enough to make seasoned innovators raise an eyebrow. It’s exactly the kind of energy the Malaysian Digital Education Corporation (MDEC), the Ministry of Education, and UKM envisioned when they created DIP, a flagship programme under Pusat PERMATA Pintar to nurture exceptional young minds and strengthen Malaysia’s digital talent pipeline. And judging by what these students showcased, that future looks bold, bright, and brilliantly promising.
Launched in 2021 by the Minister of Education, the Digital Innovator Programme DIP has grown into one of Malaysia’s most impactful digital talent development programmes, with over 200 students selected nationwide.
The programme is designed to identify, nurture, and empower high-potential students through a hands-on, project-based learning approach that integrates real-world problem-solving with industry mentorship. Its curriculum focuses on critical domains such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, Internet of Things (IoT), Cybersecurity, Computer Science and Technopreneurship.
The Open Day showcased the culmination of years of hard work: final-year projects by DIP students were on full display for evaluation by industry specialists. Visitors and judges alike were impressed by the creativity, technical skill, and entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated across all projects.
A Platform for National Impact
With over 200 students selected nationwide, DIP has become one of Malaysia’s most influential digital talent development initiatives. Its alumni have participated in over 150 national and international competitions, consistently showcasing the nation’s digital potential.
MDEC Chief Executive Officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil remarked, “We have seen firsthand how DIP transforms potential into excellence. These students are Malaysia’s digital treasures, and investing in them means investing in the nation’s progress.” UKM Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Sufian Jusoh added, “These young innovators are living proof that Malaysia’s digital future is in good hands. DIP is more than a learning programme; it’s a national platform that turns young Malaysians into global-ready innovators.”
To ensure continued growth and sustainability, MDEC and UKM have also launched the DIP Fundraising Campaign under the UKM Chancellor Foundation. Contributions will support equipment procurement, scholarships, and programme expansion, particularly for students in rural areas.
Jointly implemented by MDEC, UKM, and MOE, the programme serves as a national platform to cultivate Malaysia’s next generation of digital innovators and leaders. The programme equips students with the essential skills and growth mindset to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy. DIP has recorded remarkable milestones since its inception. Students have taken part in over 150 national and international competitions, showcasing their creativity and innovation in various fields of digital technology.
Celebrating Excellence: Award Winners
The students of the Digital Innovator Programme didn’t just show up on Open Day; they owned the room. Booth after booth featured clever, practical ideas brought to life as apps and digital prototypes. Some tackled everyday frustrations, others solved niche problems in surprisingly creative ways. It was the kind of showcase that made you forget these innovators are still in school.
Anugerah Reka Cipta Unggul (Outstanding Innovation Award)
Asas 1: Kuih oh Muih, Thievin Tikus, Street Hustles
Asas 2: Kazora Tech, Aiscream, Fudriqeil
Asas 3: Plaxo, Tinker.co, Chef Tech
Anugerah Penyampai Cemerlang (Outstanding Presentation Award)
Asas 1: Attiya – Street Hustles
Asas 2: Dikshen – Corlotl Studio
Asas 3: Jacob – Plaxo
Anugerah Transformasi MIMGA (MIMGA Transformation Award)
Plaxo, Aquasip, Loopify
Anugerah Inovasi Terbaik (Best Innovation Award)
Asas 1: Food Chain
Asas 2: Aiscream
Asas 3: Plaxo
Level 1: Ocean HQ
Among the many impressive projects, Plaxo rose to the top. Their environment-themed app quickly became the crowd favourite, thanks to its smart and genuinely useful features. The standout tool was the plant identifier, where users can snap a photo of any plant and get instant recognition. The app goes even further by offering personalised tips on how to care for that plant, making it a friendly companion for anyone who loves greenery but struggles to keep it alive.
Plaxo’s mix of tech, creativity, and real-world relevance earned them multiple awards throughout the day, cementing their status as one of the most promising teams in this year’s cohort.
The DIP Open Day was more than a showcase; it was a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the boundless potential of Malaysia’s youth. For parents who are interested in supporting the growth of this vital programme, especially its ability to reach high-potential students in rural regions, MDEC and UKM have established the DIP Fundraising Campaign under the UKM Chancellor Foundation. Contributions help fund necessary equipment and scholarships, ensuring the programme’s long-term success.
Curious to see more of what these young innovators are creating? Check out the latest updates, programme info, and student highlights on the official Digital Innovation Programme and Pusat Permata Pintar platforms.
