Robotic soccer meet sets record

Pearl Point Shopping Mall and Pearl Shopping Gallery made its way into Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) for the most number of people participating in a robotic soccer competition, with 1,057 participants.

PPSM Roboblitz 2023 was jointly organised by Jazro Robotic Academy (Jazro) and the mall.

MBR presented a certificate to Pearl Point Shopping Mall and Pearl Point Shopping Gallery general manager Darrell Choy at the closing ceremony of the event.

The competition kicked off from Nov 24 to 26, with the top 20 teams advancing to the final rounds on the last day.

Jazro chief executive officer Dzulfarqeish Zainuddin said the initiative highlighted Jazro’s mission to enlighten children about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

“I am pleased to see that many teachers from primary and secondary schools encouraging their students to join the competition.

“It is important to continue supporting and allowing them to explore more in the field of technology which helps unlock their potential for an innovative future,” he added.

Selangor Education Department student development sector deputy director Yasmin Kamarudin said prior to this, there were several instances of Malaysians having participated in robotic competitions at an international level.

“Competitions like this not only contribute to the growth and exploration of the younger generation but also play a crucial role in identifying talent among students, propelling them to reach the next level,” said Yasmin.

Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, who officiated at the closing ceremony, said the field of robotics and technology was currently experiencing rapid growth worldwide, necessitating the younger generation to face new challenges.

“We want a young generation that has enough confidence and knowledge to lead the future of our country.

“We should start providing interesting and fun exposure to them so that they do not feel scared by the words ‘robotics and technology’,” said Kok.

She also said the competition aligned with subjects taught at schools such as Design and Technology, Basic Computer Science and related subjects.

“It is the collective responsibility of teachers, parents and students to foster awareness and promote more beneficial learning, particularly in the realms of science and technology,” she added.

In addition to the main competition robotic soccer competition, the event also featured other competition categories including Robomission, Education Innovation, Family Games as well as workshops to engage and inspire the next generation of robotics enthusiasts towards digital revolution.