Three Malaysian student entrepreneurs secured top-five places at the Expop Startup Challenge Grand Finale, demonstrating the power of hands-on venture building.
Malaysian students shine at the global finale
Malaysian student entrepreneurs made a standout impact on the global stage, securing three out of the top five positions at the Expop Startup Challenge Grand Finale, streamed live from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Bryan Chu Yong Xiang, 16, secured second place and USD 2,000 with Crave Cave, a snacks and beverages brand offering fast grab-and-go treats. Wong Kean Jee, 16, placed third and won USD 1,500 with Deskmindr, a compact desk companion designed to help users manage tasks and reduce digital clutter. Sean Puon, 17, achieved fourth place and USD 1,000 with Willforge, a discipline-training app built around structured commitments and accountability.
A six-month journey from idea to execution
Expop brings together more than 200 students from over 18 schools across five countries to build and launch real ventures. Across six months, participants develop prototypes, create websites and pitch decks, engage customers, and generate sales before presenting at a live global finale.
The competition featured a USD 7,500 prize pool alongside startup accelerators, expert mentorship, and networking with venture capitalists and industry leaders. Speakers and mentors from organisations including Google, HP Tech Ventures, LinkedIn, Slack, and The Motley Fool contributed practical insight across product development, branding, marketing, and investor pitching.
