As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the landscape of technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, the ability to harness technology and turn creative ideas into practical solutions has become an essential skill for the next generation.
In line with this development, Southern University College (SUC), in collaboration with FeedMe, will organise the SUC × FeedMe Startup Hackathon 2026 from today, 13th to 15th November 2026. The three-day competition offers a total prize pool of RM10,000, encouraging students to unleash their creativity and transform innovative ideas into practical product prototypes through AI-powered technologies.
The competition features three main prizes, with RM5,000 for the champion, RM3,000 for the first runner-up and RM2,000 for the second runner-up. The initiative aims to inspire students to explore the potential of artificial intelligence while developing innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
To provide participants with valuable industry exposure and practical knowledge, the hackathon will feature four distinguished speakers from the technology, entrepreneurship and investment sectors such as Squall Tan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FeedMe, Sheah Liang, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of INFINITY8, King Wei Lo, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of FeedMe and Ka Kay Lum, Investor at Cento Ventures.
Bringing together expertise in technology leadership, startup development, technical innovation and venture investment, the speakers will share their professional experiences, industry insights and perspectives on the evolving startup ecosystem. Through these sessions, participants will gain a better understanding of how innovative ideas can be developed into market-ready products and viable business solutions.
One of the highlights of this hackathon is its focus on exploring AI-assisted development and the emerging practice of Vibe Coding, which enables users to leverage AI tools to develop software applications and product prototypes through natural-language instructions and creative collaboration.
With the assistance of AI-powered tools, students without traditional programming backgrounds can also participate in the development process, turning their ideas into functional prototypes and experiencing the journey from conceptualisation to product development.
The hackathon welcomes students from all academic disciplines, including Creative Design, Business, Communication, Information Technology and other fields. No prior programming experience is required. What matters most is creativity, enthusiasm and a willingness to explore new possibilities.
The competition also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students from different academic backgrounds to combine their knowledge and expertise to develop innovative solutions. Beyond technical skills, participants will have the opportunity to strengthen their teamwork, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and entrepreneurial abilities.
Southern University College emphasises that higher education should go beyond classroom-based knowledge delivery by providing students with opportunities to engage with industry professionals, apply their knowledge and address real-world challenges.
In an era of rapid AI development, educational institutions play an important role in promoting interdisciplinary learning and equipping students with the adaptability, creativity and technological competencies needed for the future.
Through this collaboration with FeedMe, Southern University College hopes to further strengthen the relationship between academia and industry while providing students with valuable opportunities to learn directly from industry experts and gain hands-on experience in innovation and entrepreneurship.
The university also hopes that the hackathon will serve as more than just a competition. It aims to become a platform where students can explore entrepreneurial opportunities, build professional networks and turn innovative ideas into meaningful solutions.
The SUC × FeedMe Startup Hackathon 2026 will take place from 13th to 15th November 2026 at the International Education Building (IEB), Southern University College.
Students are encouraged to step beyond their academic boundaries, embrace collaboration and challenge themselves to transform their creative ideas into reality in the age of artificial intelligence.
