An assistive wearable headset designed to help newly visually impaired individuals navigate their surroundings independently secured top honours at Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026 on 27 October 2026.
Developed by Team InnovateZ from MRSM Bagan Datuk in Perak, the invention named, TheVisionSense, earned the secondary school team first place and up to RM47,000 in Samsung products.
Restoring independence through sensor technology
TheVisionSense relies on integrated LiDAR and ultrasound sensors that monitor the wearer’s environment to detect physical obstacles. The hardware converts spatial data into immediate audio alerts, giving users situational awareness without requiring visual input.
The team engineered the wearable tool specifically for people adapting to newly acquired visual impairments, aiming to lower safety risks and restore independent movement.
Team InnovateZ said, “Being able to achieve first place makes us really happy, especially after the all the challenges we faced throughout the journey. We don’t hear as much about solutions for people with visual impairments, and that inspired us to create this headset to help them. Finally achieving what we had worked so hard for made us feel that all our efforts were worth it. We hope future generations will come up with even more exciting and powerful ideas, and help make Malaysia better known around the world through technology and innovation.”
Road safety and sustainable building among finalists
Second prize went to Team iSafePath for iSafePath 2.0, an adaptive road-safety platform using real-time detection and two-way alerts to help pedestrians and drivers navigate high-risk crossings, earning products worth up to RM30,000.
Team Replast secured third prize and products worth up to RM19,000 for Replast, an eco-friendly concept transforming recycled plastic waste into durable, water-resistant construction bricks. Fourth prize was awarded to Team EcoTerraNitro with products worth up to RM10,000, while Team Primates took fifth prize with products worth up to RM8,000.
Cultivating grassroots innovation across Malaysia
Organised by Samsung Malaysia in collaboration with University Malaya, the 2026 program attracted 106 entries from 424 students nationwide across four themes covering Environmental Sustainability, Sport and Technology, Health and Education.
Agnes Wong, Head of Corporate Marketing at Samsung Malaysia Electronics, said, “At Samsung, we believe innovation begins with the confidence to ask questions, challenge assumptions and take action. We are incredibly proud of what these young innovators have achieved and look forward to seeing them continue to grow as the changemakers of tomorrow.”
Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Mas Sahidayana Mohktar, Director of the Universiti Malaya STEM Centre, said, “The quality of ideas presented this year reflects the talent, creativity and determination of young Malaysians. Through Solve for Tomorrow, students gained valuable hands-on experience in applying STEM knowledge to solve real-world challenges while developing the skills needed to become future innovators and changemakers.”
