Brilliant minds came together, each with a unique vision and a shared goal: to solve real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration, said the hackathon’s lead coordinator Dayangku Nur Aziemah during the conclusion of the second cycle of the Startup673 National Hackathon.
“The energy, passion and determination seen from all participants have been nothing short of inspiring. They have not only embraced the challenges set before them, but have also pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, turning bold ideas into tangible solutions,” she said.
Serihub took home the seed funding for their innovative Ladang Link platform, an online marketplace, aimed at promoting food sustainability and fair pricing, impressing the judges with its creativity and feasibility.
The seed funding was presented by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) Ir Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof, during the closing ceremony yesterday.
The Serihub team, made up of Sasha Aneesha binti Sharizal Fareez, Boby Zakri bin Haji Abdul Hamid and Izazi Balqis binti Yusof, shared insights into their journey with Ladang Link.
Izazi Balqis explained, “Ladang Link connects retailers like convenience stores, supermarkets, restaurants and hotels with local farmers through an online platform.
Initially, it was intended as a marketplace for direct sales by farmers, but after receiving advice from the mentors, we adjusted the concept to focus on connecting retailers and farmers. We are now developing a web app and setting up the business framework, with the aim to launch within the next year.”
She continued, “The seed funding will be used to develop our website. I was shocked when our team was announced as the winner. I didn’t expect it. I believe the idea is simple but will bring direct benefits to farmers.”
In addition to the seed funding for Serihub, Good Vibes, an app designed to raise awareness about current scams using artificial intelligence and gamification, received a conditional seed funding offer.
The MVP award was presented to Qoyyum of Q. Branch for his successful completion of a working prototype – a business-matching app focused on facilitating deal-making. The 15-day event brought together 57 participants across 11 teams, all united by the mission to solve real-world problems with innovative solutions.
Building on the success of the inaugural event, the second cycle of the Startup673 National Hackathon provided a platform for creativity and collaboration, with participants engaging in intensive brainstorming and product development.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Infocommunications) at the MTIC Haji Hairul Mohd Daud bin Haji Abdul Karim, as well as representatives from the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), Shell LiveWIRE Brunei, Brunei Innovation Lab and the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (AITI) were also present. – James Kon
