June 23rd, 2026 – The School of Graduate Studies (SGS), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), successfully organised INOVEKSA SPS 2026, an innovation design competition among EKSA zones, held from 3 February to 22 June 2026, with the final presentation session taking place on 23 June 2026 at the Putra Sarjana Learning Space, SGS, beginning at 9.30 a.m.

The competition served as a platform to cultivate creativity and innovation among SGS staff, while promoting sustainability through the use of recycled materials and the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) elements in each project. Each EKSA zone was required to submit two teams, resulting in a total of eight competing groups.

Among the evaluation criteria were the use of at least 50 percent recycled materials, creativity and innovation, incorporation of at least one SDG element, practicality, cost-effectiveness, and the ability of the product to create a positive impact on SGS operations and environment.

The presentations were evaluated by an invited judge, Mr. Hanis Johari, Senior Assistant Registrar from the Faculty of Agriculture, UPM, who assessed each project based on originality, functionality, and potential for real-world application.

For the top winners, first place was awarded to Zone Amethyst 1 & 2 for their innovation Used Tyre Furniture, followed by Zone Sapphire 1 in second place with the Smart Office Directory Kiosk, and Zone Amber 1 in third place with the Brochure Rack.

Other results based on overall scores included Zone Ruby 2 with EZ Banting, Zone Sapphire 2 with a Recycled Clock, Zone Amber 2 with Infographic Display, and Zone Ruby 1 with a Recycling Bin.

Overall, INOVEKSA SPS 2026 successfully achieved its objective of fostering a culture of innovation, creativity, and sustainability among SGS staff. The initiative is expected to further strengthen EKSA practices while supporting the university’s efforts in creating a more efficient, sustainable, and competitive working environment.

Date of Input: 23/06/2026 | Updated: 13/07/2026 | aslamiah