The IMU University witnessed an extraordinary confluence of energy, innovation, and creativity on 11 October 2024, as students, faculty members, and industry leaders convened for the highly anticipated Pitch Perfect Finals. This grand finale, held at Auditorium 1&2, marked the culmination of the Startup Incubator Workshop Series—a platform designed to nurture entrepreneurial talent and spark innovative solutions in healthcare.

The event commenced with an enlightening keynote address by Iskandar Shafi’i, Director of Business Development and Enterprise at Growth Charger. His discourse offered profound insights into the evolving landscape of university-based entrepreneurship, inspiring attendees with his emphasis on resilience, innovation, and the transformative potential of entrepreneurial ventures.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the student pitch competition. Competing for a grand prize of RM30,000, participating teams had just five minutes to present their groundbreaking startup ideas to a distinguished panel of judges. The panel, comprising esteemed university faculty and renowned external experts, evaluated the pitches on criteria including innovation, feasibility, and potential societal impact.

1. Prof Gerry George, Group Managing Director
2.  Academician Professor Emerita Datuk Dr Asma Ismail, Vice-Chancellor
3. Prof Winnie Chee, Pro Vice Chancellor, Academic
4. Mr Mohd Iskandar Shafi’I, Director of Business Development and Enterprise, Growth Charger
5. Mr Su Keat, Chief Strategy Officer, esyms

The diversity and ingenuity of the ideas presented were truly remarkable. Students proposed pioneering digital health solutions, state-of-the-art medical devices, and innovative models to enhance patient care. The creativity, strategic vision, and meticulous planning demonstrated by the participants captivated the audience and posed a formidable challenge to the judges tasked with selecting the winners.

During the closing address, Prof Ong Chin Eng, Dean of the School of Pharmacy, reflected on the journey that had brought the participants to this pivotal moment. “Over the course of the Startup Incubator Workshop Series, Founder’s Pitch Video Competition, and Pitch Perfect Challenge, we have witnessed a remarkable convergence of passion, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. This event is not merely a celebration of ideas but a tangible step towards real-world impact,” he remarked.

Heartfelt gratitude was extended to the mentors, judges, and industry partners whose expertise and guidance were instrumental in shaping the students’ entrepreneurial aspirations. Special appreciation was also conveyed to the organising committees from the School of Health Sciences, the School of Pharmacy and Industry Partnerships and Engagement for their unwavering commitment and seamless execution of the event.

While the winners of the competition were duly celebrated for their exceptional achievements, all participants were lauded for their courage and dedication in embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys. The University’s robust startup ecosystem remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting these budding innovators by providing mentorship, funding opportunities, and a network of resources to transform their ideas into impactful solutions.

• Aishvarrya Lakshmi A/P Arut Chelvan (NU1/21, Semester 7)
• Wisdom Furaha Adram (NU1/22, Semester 5)

• Ho Ying Yuan (DN1/21, Semester 7)

• Chin Yong Jun (MC1/22, Semester 4)

As the event drew to a close, attendees departed with a renewed sense of pride and optimism for the future of healthcare innovation. The Pitch Perfect Finals was not just an event but a launchpad for transformative ideas that hold the promise of reshaping the healthcare landscape.

Congratulations to all participants for their exceptional ingenuity and dedication. The future of healthcare innovation shines brightly in the hands of such brilliant and visionary minds.