TechBliss Wins Bronze at IDEA Science Fair 2026 with Greywater Innovation

A team of students from the School of Information Technology at SEGi University, Kota Damansara achieved a commendable milestone at the IDEA Science Fair 2026, also known as the STEM Project Competition, organised by Universiti Sains Malaysia.

Held on 11 April 2026 at Dewan Utama, USM Engineering Campus in Nibong Tebal, the event brought together young innovators to showcase how STEM can contribute to practical and sustainable solutions for environmental challenges. With the theme “Sustainovation for a Greener Nation,” the competition encouraged participants to combine sustainability with innovation, highlighting the importance of responsible technological advancement.

The competition featured three categories, covering high school, pre university, and tertiary level participants. Shortlisted finalists were selected through an abstract screening phase before presenting their working prototypes and project posters to a panel of judges during a rigorous question and answer session.

Representing SEGi University in the tertiary level category was the team TechBliss, made up of four students: May Phoo Thet, Min Wai Yan Htet, Julianna Sebastian Edwin, and Touki Nito. Their project, titled “H2ORestore: Pioneering Automated Greywater Reclamation to Secure National Water Sustainability,” focused on addressing water wastage in daily life through an automated greywater filtration system.

The project used an ESP32 microcontroller, turbidity sensors to assess water clarity, and soil moisture sensors to trigger automatic irrigation. By transforming used sink water into a reusable source for plant watering, the system demonstrated a practical approach to water conservation and sustainable resource use.

Through their prototype demonstration and presentation at USM Penang, the TechBliss team successfully secured the Bronze Award in Category C, marking a proud achievement for the students and SEGi University. Their success reflects the ability of young innovators to apply technical knowledge, creativity, and problem solving skills to address real environmental needs.

This achievement also highlights SEGi University’s commitment to nurturing future ready graduates who are capable of contributing to sustainability, innovation, and responsible technological development. By participating in platforms such as the IDEA Science Fair, students are encouraged to move beyond classroom learning and develop solutions that can make a meaningful impact on communities and the environment.

This event supports the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation
SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production
SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities