The James Dyson Award 2025 has named UNBLOK as Malaysia’s National Winner. Designed by a team from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), UNBLOK is a biodegradable under-sink filter made from palm oil waste that traps fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they clog household pipes. More than just solving a common kitchen problem, the invention champions a circular economy by giving palm fiber waste a new life as compost, biodiesel, or fuel pellets.
Malaysia generates around 39,000 tonnes of solid waste every day, with food waste making up one-third of that amount. Improper disposal of used cooking oil remains a major issue, contributing to up to 70% of sewer blockages nationwide. UNBLOK tackles this head-on by installing a modular filter core under the sink. As wastewater passes through, palm fiber absorbs the grease, preventing blockages while keeping drainage smooth. Once saturated, the core can be easily replaced — and repurposed for sustainable use.
The winning team — Ong Jing Rou, Natalie Tham, and Ng Wen Kai — were inspired after facing repeated kitchen drain clogs at home. Their research revealed palm fiber’s superior oil absorption compared to other natural waste materials, leading to a year-long development of prototypes tested with real kitchen waste.
“It started with the frustration of a clogged sink, but soon we realised the wider environmental and infrastructure challenges,” said the team. “Palm fiber is abundant, natural, and biodegradable — making it the perfect material for an everyday, eco-friendly solution.”
By capturing FOG at its source, UNBLOK reduces costly repairs, prevents environmental damage, and promotes sustainable living. As Malaysia’s national winner, the team receives MYR 27,800 to further refine their design and expand testing.
National Runners-up
- Ecliptica: A tactile and audio-based learning tool that helps visually impaired students understand eclipses through textured 3D models, spatial movement, and audio guidance — making science education more inclusive.
- Flood Monitoring Alert and SOS System (FMAS): A low-cost, solar-powered flood alert and rescue system using LoRa communication technology to detect rising water, send real-time alerts, and let households signal for help with GPS locations.
What’s Next
UNBLOK, Ecliptica, and FMAS will now advance to the international stage of the James Dyson Award. The Top 20 shortlist will be announced on 15 October, with global winners chosen by Sir James Dyson on 5 November 2025.
International winners stand to receive up to MYR 166,700, while national winners and global runners-up each take home MYR 27,800.