Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Spanish Institute (UniKL MSI) emerged on top at the SpeedCAD Modelling Competition 2026 when its student, Muhammad Fareez Haiqal Muhamad Sabarani, was crowned Champion in the inter-institutional 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) modelling competition.
The achievement highlighted UniKL MSI’s strength in engineering education, digital design and technical skills development, as participants were tested on their ability to produce accurate 3D models using SOLIDWORKS under strict time constraints.
UniKL MSI also secured another place among the winners through Nur Azmina Nailah Marzuki, who finished as third runner-up.
Gadzmin Hyzara Hairuzfizan from TVET MARA Jasin was named first runner-up, while Nur Fahimah Syafiah Ahmad Shaidqrol from TVET MARA Balik Pulau took second runner-up.
Held at UniKL MSI in Kulim, Kedah on 4 August 2026, SpeedCAD 2026 was organised by the institute’s Mechanical Section and brought together Diploma students from several Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
Participants represented UniKL MSI, TVET MARA Jasin, TVET MARA Balik Pulau, Institut Kemahiran Tinggi PERDA (PERDA-TECH) and Kolej Vokasional Sungai Petani 1.
More than a test of software proficiency, the competition assessed participants’ technical knowledge, modelling accuracy, problem-solving ability, attention to detail and speed, reflecting competencies that are important in engineering, mechanical design and advanced manufacturing.
Following the preliminary rounds, the Top 10 participants progressed to the final stage, where they competed for the championship while demonstrating their ability to apply technical knowledge in a high-pressure, practical setting.
SpeedCAD 2026 also strengthened university-industry engagement through UniKL MSI’s collaboration with the IME Group of Companies, which provided participants with exposure to professional CAD practices and industry expectations.
As part of the industry initiative, the Top 10 finalists received sponsored Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) examination vouchers, allowing them to pursue an internationally recognised CAD certification and enhance their technical credentials and employability.
The competition reflects UniKL MSI’s emphasis on industry-driven TVET education, experiential learning and graduate employability, where students are given opportunities to translate classroom knowledge into practical engineering competencies.
As the inaugural edition, SpeedCAD 2026 is also expected to pave the way for a broader annual platform involving more TVET institutions nationwide while strengthening links among UniKL MSI, industry partners and the wider TVET community.
The initiative also supports UniKL MSI’s efforts to encourage more TVET students to pursue higher education in engineering, mechanical design, CAD/CAM and related technical fields.
SpeedCAD 2026 contributes directly to SDG 4: Quality Education by providing students with an experiential learning platform to develop technical competencies in Computer-Aided Design, problem-solving, creativity, accuracy, time management and digital engineering.
The programme also aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through its focus on engineering technology and digital design, while its engagement with industry supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
