Belia Tabah, the dedicated and resilient team from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), achieved a significant milestone at the Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2025, held at the Lusail International Circuit in Doha, Qatar.
The team secured a 3rd place finish in the Prototype Battery-Electric category with Mekar, achieving an energy efficiency of 301.7km/kWh. This broke the national record they set last year in Lombok, Indonesia when they placed 9th and achieved an energy efficiency of 285.5km/KWh, demonstrating their unwavering dedication, innovation, and technical expertise over five rigorous days of competition.
Led by Team Manager Muhammad Hifdzur Azmi Haji Mohd Zain, the team’s vehicle, Mekar, driven by Ahmad Muzakker Haji Khalid, delivered an outstanding performance. The achievement was made possible by the tireless efforts of Belia Tabah’s specialised sub-teams, each playing a pivotal role in overcoming challenges throughout the competition. The Mechanical Team, consisting of Pengiran Haji Baharuddin Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin and Iman Abdul Walid, worked diligently alongside the main pit crew, Muhammad Aqil Nuruddin Janeil and Muhammad Ikhwan Syazwan Mohamad Azrin. The Electrical Team, under Fatin Amanina Awang Haji Abd Azis, ensured smooth electrical performance. The Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) Team, comprised of Raihani Mohammad Rafie and Helena Shea Harun, maintained safety and compliance, while the Media Team, represented by Dayang Amal Nabillah Awang Haji Abd Aziz and Nur Amni Imanina Haji Narudin, documented and showcased the team’s journey throughout the competition. Additionally, time management of the team was overseen by Dr Muhammad Abid, Assistant Professor at the Department of Energy Systems Engineering, Faculty of Integrated Technologies (FIT) and Hajah Joanna Haji Yacob, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (University Life and Governance).
Achieving a 3rd place finish in the competition was no small feat. The team encountered numerous challenges, including technical setbacks and the high pressure demand for maximum efficiency. Each trial required meticulous adjustments to optimise energy consumption and aerodynamics. Despite these obstacles, the team’s perseverance and strategic problem-solving led to a record-breaking performance that secured their well-earned position in the competition.
Belia Tabah extends its heartfelt gratitude to the families, friends, UBD, and sponsors whose unwavering support and belief in the team’s vision played a crucial role in this achievement. Their encouragement has been instrumental in every step of the journey.
As the team celebrates this remarkable success, Belia Tabah remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing innovation and sustainability in energy-efficient mobility. Their accomplishments at the Shell Eco-marathon serve as an inspiration to future engineers and innovators across the nation.
About Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD)
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is Brunei Darussalam’s leading university, dedicated to providing top-tier education and research opportunities. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, UBD prepares students to become leaders and professionals who contribute to national and global development.
About Shell Eco-marathon
The Shell Eco-marathon is an esteemed global competition that challenges students to develop the most energy-efficient vehicles possible. Encouraging technological advancements, sustainability, and collaboration, the event pushes the limits of what can be achieved in energy-efficient mobility.