Chong Chee Kin clinches prestigious IEM Gold Medal

Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) is celebrating a significant milestone as its graduate, Chong Chee Kin, received the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Gold Medal Award—one of the nation’s highest accolades for engineering students. The award was presented during the IEM 66th Annual Dinner & Awards Night 2025 held on 19 April 2025 at the Sunway Resort Hotel.

Recognised for both academic excellence and his contributions to the engineering field, Chong’s success is a moment of pride not only for himself but for the APU community. The Gold Medal underscores a rare blend of technical prowess, creative thinking, and consistent academic achievement.

“Chong Chee Kin exemplifies the innovative spirit and technical excellence we strive to nurture at APU’s School of Engineering,” said Associate Professor Ir Ts Dr Siva Kumar Sivanesan, Head of APU’s School of Engineering. “His achievement reflects not only his dedication but also the quality of engineering education at APU.”

Passion and mentorship

Graduating with First Class Honours in Mechatronic Engineering, Chong’s academic track record has been nothing short of remarkable. His ability to translate theoretical knowledge into innovative real-world applications set him apart throughout his studies.

Much of his growth, he noted, was guided by the dedicated mentorship of Assistant Professor Ir EUR ING Ts Dr Lau Chee Yong and Assistant Professor Ir Ts Dr Alexander Chee Hon Cheong. Both faculty members played pivotal roles in nurturing Chong’s talents and providing research opportunities that sharpened his engineering capabilities.

With their guidance, Chong compiled a robust portfolio showcasing his command of engineering fundamentals and a flair for innovation—hallmarks of APU’s educational approach that combines rigour with real-world application.

Global recognition

Chong’s achievements extend well beyond campus boundaries. In 2024, he won the Outstanding Award and Gold Award at the Malaysia Technology Expo, solidifying his reputation as an innovator on the rise. He further earned the APICTA Malaysia Merit Award, which granted him the honour of representing Malaysia at the APICTA Finals in Brunei, an international stage for ICT innovation.

International acclaim followed at the Invention Innovation Competition Canada (iCAN) 2024, where Chong was awarded Gold Medal, Best Invention Design Award, and the Bucharest Special Award. His inventive prowess was also recognised by the James Dyson Award 2024, a globally respected prize that celebrates breakthrough ideas in product design and engineering.

Each accolade not only highlighted Chong’s personal capabilities but also reinforced APU’s reputation as an incubator of global-ready engineering talent.

Chong’s IEM Gold Medal is more than a personal triumph—it serves as a beacon for current and future students of APU. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved through dedication, curiosity, and the right academic environment.