A national business accelerator for university students and alumni. Participants will pitch real-world solutions to challenges faced by universities, corporates, and Talentbank — transforming ideas into impactful ventures.
Empowering Students to Build Ventures That Matter
Application closes on September 20th, 2025 (11.59PM)
For team entries, only one submission is required. You’ll be asked to include your teammates’ information later in the process.
Empowering Students to Build Ventures That Matter
Application closes on September 20th, 2025 (11.59PM)
Whether you're an undergraduate, postgraduate, or recent graduate, if you meet the criteria, you're eligible to be part of this prestigious recognition initiative.
Click here to connect with Ben on LinkedIn
Dear Students/Alumni,
It is with great excitement that we welcome you to the Inaugural Talentbank Boardroom Challenge 2025.
This year marks Talentbank’s 15th anniversary — a milestone that reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering graduates and shaping the future of employability. For over a decade, we’ve partnered with 100+ universities and thousands of top employers to create meaningful pathways from classroom to career. As we now enter our next phase of growth across Asia, we are proud to launch this national accelerator to discover and nurture the next generation of visionary entrepreneurs.
This is more than just a competition — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to turn your bold ideas into real-world ventures. You’ll solve pressing challenges faced by universities, corporates, and Talentbank itself. If shortlisted, you’ll receive mentorship from corporate leaders, potential seed funding, and even job offers to fast-track your entrepreneurial and professional journey.
But it doesn’t stop there. We’re on the lookout for exceptional talent — individuals who are not just dreamers, but doers. Those who stand out may be invited to work directly with me and my senior leadership team, contributing to Talentbank’s regional expansion and fast-growing ecosystem.
Many talk about making an impact — this is your chance to actually do it. You’ll collaborate with the brightest minds of your generation, and gain access to decision-makers who can help bring your ideas to life.
If you aspire to lead, innovate, and grow with a purpose-driven team, this is the platform you simply cannot afford to miss.
We look forward to witnessing your brilliance, your courage, and your commitment to building a better future — for yourself, and for others.
Are you ready to step up? The future is already moving — don’t get left behind.
Ben Ho
CEO & Founder
Top 3 winning teams will walk away with exciting cash prizes sponsored by Talentbank — but that’s just the beginning. This challenge is your chance to shine, gain real-world recognition, and build powerful connections with industry leaders. Whether you win or not, you’ll walk away with invaluable experience, sharpened skills, and a stronger foundation for your future career.
Enjoy an exclusive invite to the prestigious Graduates’ Choice Award Gala and connect with leading corporate professionals.
Beyond the main prizes, participants will gain exclusive perks to boost their careers—certificates of participation, personalised feedback from industry experts, and early access to Talentbank’s career fairs. Most importantly, we’ll share your CV with thousands of reputable employers, giving you unmatched exposure to job and internship opportunities."
These awards honour exceptional students who went the extra mile and stood out through unique dedication and outstanding effort in preparing their pitches. Special awards are not guaranteed and are subject to suitability of recipients.
Personally selected by Talentbank’s CEO for overall outstanding excellence.
Recognising a student whose potential, mindset, and early actions reflect the qualities of a successful future startup founder.
Recognising a student with the most engaging and professional presentation delivery, demonstrating clarify, confidence and persuasive storytelling.
Recognising a student who demonstrates exceptional leadership, coordination, and decision-making throughout the challenge.
Recognising a student who thought beyond the obvious — with a clear grasp of market dynamics, competitive positioning, and long-term planning.
Recognising a student whose idea or approach challenged convention, inspired new thinking, and showed promise to disrupt existing markets.
Recognising a team who stood out for their ability to pitch ideas clearly, passionately, and persuasively — capturing the essence of their venture with impact.
Recognising a team with pitch that demonstrates a strong commitment and contribution to society and community.
Recognising a team with remarkable creativity, clarity, and aesthetics in presentation visuals.
Recognising a team with outstanding integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance factors in pitch.
Special awards are introduced to honour outstanding students; however, they are not guaranteed and may be removed without prior notice if no suitable recipient is identified. The organiser also reserves the right to introduce new special awards at its sole discretion.
Suitable for participants who are interested in transforming how people learn, teaching innovation, and building impactful solutions for schools, universities, or lifelong learning — and build a business out of it that is profitable, sustainable, and win-win for all.
Problem Statement:
Malaysia’s current tertiary education model struggles to keep pace with industry changes, resulting in a mismatch between graduate skills and job market demands. University graduates often face underemployment or unemployment, and employers continue to report a lack of job-ready talent. There is a pressing need for a new approach that bridges academia with industry, embraces innovation, and ensures students are well-prepared for the workforce.
Your Task:
Design a future-ready university education model from scratch. Your proposed solution should help universities reshape their academic structure, curriculum, industry engagement, and graduate support services to boost employability and salary outcomes.
Key Considerations:
- How will your education model align with evolving industry needs and economic trends?
- What innovative teaching methods, internships, or partnerships will you include to enhance career readiness?
- How will data and technology be used to personalise learning and track student progress?
- What makes your model scalable and financially sustainable?
Desired Outcome:
A bold, sustainable university model that produces graduates with at least 90% employability and starting salaries of RM4,500 or higher—setting a new benchmark for Malaysian higher education.
Problem Statement:
A significant number of SPM leavers in Malaysia face academic or financial limitations that hinder their pursuit of tertiary education. As a result, many struggle to secure sustainable employment and long-term career growth. There is a growing demand for affordable, non-traditional education pathways that equip school leavers with practical, job-ready skills within a short timeframe.
Your Task:
Develop a one-year education or skills-training programme (non-technical) specifically designed for SPM leavers. The programme should be accessible (tuition not exceeding RM15,000), industry-relevant, and structured to guarantee employability upon completion.
Key Considerations:
- What types of job roles are realistically attainable for SPM leavers after one year of training?
- What skills and competencies should the programme prioritise to meet current market needs?
- How will your programme ensure job placement or income generation post-completion?
- How will affordability, quality, and scalability be maintained?
Desired Outcome:
A practical and inclusive education programme that enables SPM leavers to secure employment with a minimum starting salary of RM3,000 per month, thereby providing a credible alternative to conventional higher education.
Suitable for participants who are passionate about helping others land jobs, bridging the education-to-employment gap, and creating platforms or services that boost career readiness — and build a business out of it that is profitable, sustainable, and win-win for all.
Problem Statement:
Fresh graduates often face challenges navigating the job market due to lack of experience, limited industry networks, and uncertainty about career paths. Existing job platforms are not tailored to their unique needs, leading to inefficiencies in matching talent with the right opportunities. A graduate-focused solution is urgently needed to improve career outcomes and bridge this gap.
Your Task:
Design a digital job platform specifically for fresh graduates that enhances job discoverability, improves employer trust, and provides relevant tools for career readiness, such as skills-matching, mentorship, and learning modules.
Key Considerations:
- How will your platform verify employers and job listings to ensure quality and transparency?
- What features will support personalised career exploration and readiness for fresh graduates?
- How will your platform match candidates to roles based on skills, values, and culture fit?
- What is your plan for long-term engagement, monetisation, and sustainability?
Desired Outcome:
An end-to-end graduate employability platform that enhances job matching effectiveness, supports career growth, and builds a trusted bridge between young talent and the workforce.
Problem Statement:
Traditional career fairs are often passive, generic, and lack measurable outcomes. Students attend without clear objectives, and employers struggle to identify quality candidates. In an era of digital transformation, there is a need to reimagine career fairs as interactive, outcome-driven experiences that deliver tangible value for both students and employers.
Your Task:
Develop an innovative concept for a career fair—either physical, virtual, or hybrid—that drives meaningful student-employer interaction, enhances employer branding, and leads to real internship or job placements.
Key Considerations:
- How will your model increase engagement and outcome-based participation from both students and employers?
- What role will technology or gamification play in enhancing the experience?
- How will success be measured—e.g. interview conversions, offers made, engagement metrics?
- How will your career fair format remain scalable and cost-effective?
Desired Outcome:
A redefined career fair experience that significantly improves student-employer connectivity, employer branding, and job placement results, establishing a new industry standard.
Suitable for participants who are curious about workplace culture, recruitment marketing, and helping companies attract and retain top talent through creative branding solutions — and build a business out of it that is profitable, sustainable, and win-win for all.
Problem Statement:
Many companies especially lesser-known brands struggle to maintain visibility and attractiveness among students. Most employer branding efforts are event-based, short-term, and quickly forgotten. There is a need for cost-effective, sustained strategies that help employers build strong, lasting brand presence on campuses throughout the academic year.
Your Task:
Propose a strategic campaign or platform that enables companies to maintain a meaningful and consistent employer branding presence on university campuses across Malaysia.
Key Considerations:
- How will your solution capture student attention and build trust over time?
- What creative formats or content strategies will make the brand memorable?
- How will success be measured (e.g. brand recall, engagement, conversions)?
- How will your approach remain accessible to companies with limited branding budgets?
Desired Outcome:
A low-cost, scalable employer branding solution that builds long-term visibility and preference among students, enabling companies to attract high-quality graduate talent year-round.
Problem Statement:
Many organisations recognise the value of student ambassadors as a channel for campus engagement but lack a structured approach to implement such programmes effectively. Without proper design, selection, and performance measurement, these programmes often fail to deliver consistent results or meaningful student development.
Your Task:
Design a comprehensive Campus Ambassador Programme that empowers students to represent a brand on campus, while providing value to both the students and the participating companies.
Key Considerations:
- How will you recruit, train, and manage student ambassadors across diverse campuses?
- What activities and responsibilities will drive strong student-brand interactions?
- What benefits will motivate students to join and perform consistently?
- How will you measure performance and track campaign impact?
Desired Outcome:
A well-structured campus ambassador framework that fosters student leadership, promotes brand visibility, and delivers measurable ROI for employers through sustained engagement.
Each idea will be scored on how well it solves real problems, creates measurable value, and demonstrates clear potential for implementation and growth. A balanced focus is placed on creativity, execution, and presentation quality.
Boldness in Challenging the Norm
Does the idea break away from outdated models or traditions? Is it bold, courageous, and disruptive in rethinking the way things are done? Are they brave enough to lead change, not just suggest improvements?
Impact on Employability
Will this idea lead to measurable improvements in graduate outcomes—such as job offers, higher starting salaries, practical skills, or stronger career readiness?
Scalability Potential
Can the solution be replicated or expanded across other regions, universities, or industries while maintaining its effectiveness and integrity? Does it have national or regional relevance?
Problem Clarity
Has the team clearly identified a real, significant problem? Is their understanding of the issue deep, insightful, and well-articulated with supporting data or observations?
User Relevance
Is the solution designed with empathy and insight into its intended users (students, employers, educators)? Is it accessible, relatable, and suited to their actual needs?
Value Proposition
Does the idea deliver a clear and compelling benefit? Is the “what’s in it for the user” obvious, unique, and impactful?
Feasibility
Is there a structured, realistic roadmap for implementation? Are the roles, timeline, and required resources clearly laid out and achievable?
Sustainability Model
Can the solution sustain itself financially and operationally in the long term? Does it avoid heavy reliance on grants or external subsidies?
Resilience & Grit
Does the team demonstrate persistence, adaptability, and commitment to refining their idea? Have they responded to feedback or considered challenges with a growth mindset?
Pitch & Storytelling
Was the idea communicated clearly and persuasively? Did the team engage the judges with confidence, structure, and a compelling narrative?
Chief Executive Officer
Director of Employer Liaison
Director of Government & University Liaison
We’re thrilled to invite you to a meaningful and memorable awards presentation at the Talentbank Office. Join us as we honour all participants and winners in a warm and inspiring setting—designed to celebrate achievements, foster connections, and create lasting memories.
Interested in joining? Kindly complete the official participation form. A confirmation email will be delivered to your inbox within 5 minutes of submission.
Join solo or form a team of up to four members, and don’t forget to create a unique team name.
Fill in the interest form on this page and receive instructions on what to do next.
Select a challenge and work together to create a proposal with your best solution.
Send in your proposal by following the email instructions. Qualified teams will be invited to present.
Present your proposal to the judges at Talentbank’s Boardroom in Plaza Damas 3.
Celebrate your achievement and network with other finalists at the awards ceremony.
Organised by
Talentbank Sdn Bhd (1271762A) - The Employability Company
B-0-19, Plaza Damas 3, Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Disclaimer – Talentbank Boardroom Challenge
Participation in the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge (“Challenge”) constitutes full acceptance of the following terms and conditions. Talentbank Group (“Talentbank”) reserves the right to amend these terms at any time without prior notice. Participants are encouraged to read and understand all conditions before engaging in the Challenge.
1. Voluntary Participation
Participation in the Challenge is entirely voluntary. Talentbank shall not be held liable for any loss, injury, or damages (direct or indirect) incurred before, during, or after the Challenge.
2. Eligibility
Participants must be current students or recent graduates from recognised institutions unless otherwise approved by Talentbank. Talentbank reserves the right to verify eligibility at any stage.
3. Participant Expenses
All Participants are responsible for covering their own expenses, including but not limited to transportation, accommodation, meals, and materials, throughout the duration of the Challenge. Talentbank will not provide reimbursements unless explicitly stated in writing.
4. Team Composition
If participating as a team, all members must contribute meaningfully to the Submission. Any team disputes must be resolved internally. Talentbank will not mediate or intervene in internal team matters.
5. Submissions & Intellectual Property
All ideas, proposals, and materials (“Submissions”) remain the intellectual property of the Participants. However, by submitting, Participants grant Talentbank a non-exclusive, royalty-free, perpetual, and worldwide licence to use, reproduce, publish, adapt, and distribute the Submissions for educational, promotional, strategic, and commercial purposes.
6. Commercial Use
Submissions may be further developed, adapted, or commercialised by Talentbank or its partners. No compensation or royalties will be paid, and Participants shall not claim ownership or profits. Acknowledgement may be given at Talentbank’s discretion.
7. Non-Disclosure of Sensitive Information
Participants are strongly advised not to include confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information in their Submissions. Talentbank will not be held responsible for any unauthorised use or disclosure of such content.
8. Use of Tools & AI
Participants may use digital tools and artificial intelligence to support their work; however, all Submissions must reflect original thinking and genuine effort. Over-reliance on automated content may result in disqualification.
9. Judging & Evaluation
All Submissions will be reviewed by a panel of judges selected by Talentbank. Evaluation will be based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, clarity, impact, and presentation.
While an idea may be appealing to peers or the public, final judgement rests solely with Talentbank, particularly in relation to how well the idea aligns with Talentbank’s business goals. Talentbank’s decisions are final and binding, and no appeals will be entertained.
10. No Employment Guarantee
Participation in the Challenge does not guarantee any form of employment or internship. Only top-performing teams may be considered for further opportunities, which are strictly subject to interview and additional evaluation processes.
11. Disqualification
Talentbank reserves the right to disqualify any Participant or team for misconduct, plagiarism, misrepresentation, or failure to comply with the rules or spirit of the Challenge.
12. Media Release
By participating, all Participants grant Talentbank the right to photograph, record, or film their involvement, and to use such materials—including names and likenesses—for marketing, educational, and promotional purposes, without further approval or compensation.
13. Data Privacy
By entering the Challenge, Participants consent to the collection, storage, and processing of their personal data by Talentbank in accordance with the Malaysian Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) 2010. This may include name, contact details, academic affiliation, and social media handles.
14. Limitation of Liability
Talentbank and its partners shall not be held responsible for technical failures, internet issues, data loss, or other unforeseen circumstances that may impact participation or results.
15. Amendments & Cancellations
Talentbank reserves the right to cancel, modify, or postpone any part of the Challenge at its sole discretion without prior notice. This includes changes to rules, timelines, formats, prizes, and judging criteria.
16. Acceptance of Terms
By joining the Challenge, Participants confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to comply with all terms in this Disclaimer and any additional rules set by Talentbank.
Privacy Policy
1. Purpose of Data Collection
Talentbank is committed to safeguarding your personal data in compliance with the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (PDPA). This policy outlines how your data is collected, used, stored, and protected.
2. What Data We Collect
We collect the following types of information:
- Personal identifiers (full name, IC/passport number, email, phone number)
- Academic information (university, course, year of study)
- Submissions and presentation materials (including decks, videos)
- Media (photos/videos taken during the event)
3. How We Use Your Data
Your data may be used for the following purposes:
- Communication regarding event updates, reminders, and outcome notifications.
- Evaluation and judging of your submissions.
- Shortlisting and selection processes.
- Media, promotional, or testimonial purposes (subject to your media consent).
- Outreach for mentorship, employment, or commercialisation opportunities.
4. Data Sharing
We may share your data with:
- Judges and mentors (bound by confidentiality agreements)
- University representatives (for verification or recognition)
- Sponsors or industry partners (only with your consent for outreach)
5. Data Storage & Protection
All collected data is securely stored in encrypted servers accessible only to authorised Talentbank personnel. We implement industry-standard security measures to protect against loss, misuse, or unauthorised access.
6. Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Access and review your data.
- Request corrections to inaccurate data.
- Withdraw consent for processing (note: this may affect your participation).
- Request deletion of your data (after event completion).
For any inquiries or data requests, contact: boardroom@talentbank.io.
Code of Conduct & Media Usage Policy
1. Expected Behaviour
At the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge, we strive to foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment. By participating, you agree to:
- Treat all participants, mentors, judges, and organisers with respect and professionalism.
- Uphold the integrity of your work and represent your team fairly.
- Avoid plagiarism, false claims, or misrepresentation.
- Avoid discrimination, harassment, or offensive behaviour of any kind.
2. Professional Etiquette
- Show up on time for scheduled events and briefings.
- Communicate promptly with organisers if delays or issues arise.
- Collaborate with a mindset of growth, contribution, and learning.
3. Media Consent
Photos and videos may be taken during the event for publicity and documentation purposes. By participating, you grant Talentbank the right to:
- Capture and publish event photographs and video recordings featuring you.
- Use your name, institution, and likeness for promotional content on Talentbank websites, brochures, social media, and press releases.
If you do not wish to be included in any media, you must inform us in writing before participating.
Intellectual Property & Strategic Use Policy
1. Purpose of this Policy
This policy outlines how Talentbank handles all intellectual property (IP) submitted as part of the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge. It exists to ensure full transparency and to eliminate any ambiguity regarding Talentbank’s rights to use, adapt, and commercialise participant submissions.
2. Acknowledgement of Ownership
All ideas submitted remain, in principle, the original creation of the participant or team. However, by joining this Challenge, participants expressly acknowledge and agree that Talentbank is granted full rights to use, adapt, improve, and commercialise any and all parts of the submitted ideas — without the need for further approval, attribution, or compensation.
3. Rights Granted to Talentbank
By entering this Challenge, you (the participant or team) unconditionally and irrevocably grant Talentbank a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free, and fully transferable licence to:
- Use, adapt, edit, improve, or combine your idea with other ideas.
- Develop new concepts, solutions, business models, or enhancements based on your submission.
- Implement and integrate parts or the entirety of your idea into Talentbank’s services, offerings, or commercial programmes.
- Commercialise, monetise, or otherwise generate value from the idea without further involvement or approval from the original submitters.
- Share the idea internally or externally with stakeholders, partners, investors, or customers as Talentbank deems necessary.
4. Waiver of Future Claims
By submitting an idea, all participants waive any and all rights to:
- Object to Talentbank’s use or commercialisation of their submission.
- Claim ownership or co-ownership of any future iterations, products, or business strategies derived from their submission.
- Request royalties, fees, credit, or recognition of any kind.
- Take legal action for IP infringement related to the use of submitted ideas by Talentbank.
If you do not agree, you should not submit your idea.
5. Confidentiality and Handling of Ideas
- All submissions will be treated with confidentiality during judging.
- Judges and internal staff are bound by non-disclosure agreements.
- Talentbank may, at its discretion, feature selected ideas (in full or in part) on its platforms, reports, or media — with or without attribution.
- Participants may separately publish or develop their ideas independently, but this does not limit Talentbank’s rights as outlined above.
Disclaimer – Talentbank Boardroom Challenge
Participation in the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge (“Challenge”) constitutes full acceptance of the following terms and conditions. Talentbank Group (“Talentbank”) reserves the right to amend these terms at any time without prior notice. Participants are encouraged to read and understand all conditions before engaging in the Challenge.
1. Voluntary Participation
Participation in the Challenge is entirely voluntary. Talentbank shall not be held liable for any loss, injury, or damages (direct or indirect) incurred before, during, or after the Challenge.
2. Eligibility
Participants must be current students or recent graduates from recognised institutions unless otherwise approved by Talentbank. Talentbank reserves the right to verify eligibility at any stage.
3. Participant Expenses
All Participants are responsible for covering their own expenses, including but not limited to transportation, accommodation, meals, and materials, throughout the duration of the Challenge. Talentbank will not provide reimbursements unless explicitly stated in writing.
4. Team Composition
If participating as a team, all members must contribute meaningfully to the Submission. Any team disputes must be resolved internally. Talentbank will not mediate or intervene in internal team matters.
5. Submissions & Intellectual Property
All ideas, proposals, and materials (“Submissions”) remain the intellectual property of the Participants. However, by submitting, Participants grant Talentbank a non-exclusive, royalty-free, perpetual, and worldwide licence to use, reproduce, publish, adapt, and distribute the Submissions for educational, promotional, strategic, and commercial purposes.
6. Commercial Use
Submissions may be further developed, adapted, or commercialised by Talentbank or its partners. No compensation or royalties will be paid, and Participants shall not claim ownership or profits. Acknowledgement may be given at Talentbank’s discretion.
7. Non-Disclosure of Sensitive Information
Participants are strongly advised not to include confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information in their Submissions. Talentbank will not be held responsible for any unauthorised use or disclosure of such content.
8. Use of Tools & AI
Participants may use digital tools and artificial intelligence to support their work; however, all Submissions must reflect original thinking and genuine effort. Over-reliance on automated content may result in disqualification.
9. Judging & Evaluation
All Submissions will be reviewed by a panel of judges selected by Talentbank. Evaluation will be based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, clarity, impact, and presentation.
While an idea may be appealing to peers or the public, final judgement rests solely with Talentbank, particularly in relation to how well the idea aligns with Talentbank’s business goals. Talentbank’s decisions are final and binding, and no appeals will be entertained.
10. No Employment Guarantee
Participation in the Challenge does not guarantee any form of employment or internship. Only top-performing teams may be considered for further opportunities, which are strictly subject to interview and additional evaluation processes.
11. Disqualification
Talentbank reserves the right to disqualify any Participant or team for misconduct, plagiarism, misrepresentation, or failure to comply with the rules or spirit of the Challenge.
12. Media Release
By participating, all Participants grant Talentbank the right to photograph, record, or film their involvement, and to use such materials—including names and likenesses—for marketing, educational, and promotional purposes, without further approval or compensation.
13. Data Privacy
By entering the Challenge, Participants consent to the collection, storage, and processing of their personal data by Talentbank in accordance with the Malaysian Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) 2010. This may include name, contact details, academic affiliation, and social media handles.
14. Limitation of Liability
Talentbank and its partners shall not be held responsible for technical failures, internet issues, data loss, or other unforeseen circumstances that may impact participation or results.
15. Amendments & Cancellations
Talentbank reserves the right to cancel, modify, or postpone any part of the Challenge at its sole discretion without prior notice. This includes changes to rules, timelines, formats, prizes, and judging criteria.
16. Acceptance of Terms
By joining the Challenge, Participants confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to comply with all terms in this Disclaimer and any additional rules set by Talentbank.
Privacy Policy
1. Purpose of Data Collection
Talentbank is committed to safeguarding your personal data in compliance with the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (PDPA). This policy outlines how your data is collected, used, stored, and protected.
2. What Data We Collect
We collect the following types of information:
- Personal identifiers (full name, IC/passport number, email, phone number)
- Academic information (university, course, year of study)
- Submissions and presentation materials (including decks, videos)
- Media (photos/videos taken during the event)
3. How We Use Your Data
Your data may be used for the following purposes:
- Communication regarding event updates, reminders, and outcome notifications.
- Evaluation and judging of your submissions.
- Shortlisting and selection processes.
- Media, promotional, or testimonial purposes (subject to your media consent).
- Outreach for mentorship, employment, or commercialisation opportunities.
4. Data Sharing
We may share your data with:
- Judges and mentors (bound by confidentiality agreements)
- University representatives (for verification or recognition)
- Sponsors or industry partners (only with your consent for outreach)
5. Data Storage & Protection
All collected data is securely stored in encrypted servers accessible only to authorised Talentbank personnel. We implement industry-standard security measures to protect against loss, misuse, or unauthorised access.
6. Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Access and review your data.
- Request corrections to inaccurate data.
- Withdraw consent for processing (note: this may affect your participation).
- Request deletion of your data (after event completion).
For any inquiries or data requests, contact: boardroom@talentbank.io.
Code of Conduct & Media Usage Policy
1. Expected Behaviour
At the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge, we strive to foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment. By participating, you agree to:
- Treat all participants, mentors, judges, and organisers with respect and professionalism.
- Uphold the integrity of your work and represent your team fairly.
- Avoid plagiarism, false claims, or misrepresentation.
- Avoid discrimination, harassment, or offensive behaviour of any kind.
2. Professional Etiquette
- Show up on time for scheduled events and briefings.
- Communicate promptly with organisers if delays or issues arise.
- Collaborate with a mindset of growth, contribution, and learning.
3. Media Consent
Photos and videos may be taken during the event for publicity and documentation purposes. By participating, you grant Talentbank the right to:
- Capture and publish event photographs and video recordings featuring you.
- Use your name, institution, and likeness for promotional content on Talentbank websites, brochures, social media, and press releases.
If you do not wish to be included in any media, you must inform us in writing before participating.
Intellectual Property & Strategic Use Policy
1. Purpose of this Policy
This policy outlines how Talentbank handles all intellectual property (IP) submitted as part of the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge. It exists to ensure full transparency and to eliminate any ambiguity regarding Talentbank’s rights to use, adapt, and commercialise participant submissions.
2. Acknowledgement of Ownership
All ideas submitted remain, in principle, the original creation of the participant or team. However, by joining this Challenge, participants expressly acknowledge and agree that Talentbank is granted full rights to use, adapt, improve, and commercialise any and all parts of the submitted ideas — without the need for further approval, attribution, or compensation.
3. Rights Granted to Talentbank
By entering this Challenge, you (the participant or team) unconditionally and irrevocably grant Talentbank a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free, and fully transferable licence to:
- Use, adapt, edit, improve, or combine your idea with other ideas.
- Develop new concepts, solutions, business models, or enhancements based on your submission.
- Implement and integrate parts or the entirety of your idea into Talentbank’s services, offerings, or commercial programmes.
- Commercialise, monetise, or otherwise generate value from the idea without further involvement or approval from the original submitters.
- Share the idea internally or externally with stakeholders, partners, investors, or customers as Talentbank deems necessary.
4. Waiver of Future Claims
By submitting an idea, all participants waive any and all rights to:
- Object to Talentbank’s use or commercialisation of their submission.
- Claim ownership or co-ownership of any future iterations, products, or business strategies derived from their submission.
- Request royalties, fees, credit, or recognition of any kind.
- Take legal action for IP infringement related to the use of submitted ideas by Talentbank.
If you do not agree, you should not submit your idea.
5. Confidentiality and Handling of Ideas
- All submissions will be treated with confidentiality during judging.
- Judges and internal staff are bound by non-disclosure agreements.
- Talentbank may, at its discretion, feature selected ideas (in full or in part) on its platforms, reports, or media — with or without attribution.
- Participants may separately publish or develop their ideas independently, but this does not limit Talentbank’s rights as outlined above.
Terms & Conditions
By participating in the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge (“Challenge”), you agree to the following terms, which combine all rules, policies, and notices applicable to this event. Talentbank Group (“Talentbank”) may amend these terms at any time without prior notice, and participants are encouraged to review them regularly.
1. Participation & Eligibility
Participation in the Challenge is voluntary. Talentbank shall not be liable for any loss, injury, or damages (direct or indirect) incurred before, during, or after the Challenge. Unless otherwise approved by Talentbank, participants must be current students or recent graduates from recognised institutions. Talentbank reserves the right to verify eligibility at any stage.
2. Participant Responsibilities & Expenses
All expenses (transportation, accommodation, meals, materials, etc.) are the responsibility of participants unless explicitly stated otherwise in writing. If participating as a team, all members must contribute meaningfully to their submission and resolve any internal disputes independently.
3. Code of Conduct
All participants must:
4. Submissions & Intellectual Property Rights
All ideas, proposals, and materials (“Submissions”) remain the intellectual property of the participants. However, by joining the Challenge, you grant Talentbank a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free, and fully transferable licence to use, adapt, reproduce, publish, improve, commercialise, and distribute your Submission for educational, promotional, strategic, and commercial purposes without the need for further approval, attribution, or compensation. You waive all rights to:
5. Non-Disclosure of Sensitive Information
Do not include confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information in your Submission. Talentbank will not be responsible for any unauthorised use or disclosure of such information.
6. Use of Tools & AI
Participants may use digital tools and artificial intelligence to support their work, but all Submissions must reflect original thinking and genuine effort. Over-reliance on automated content may result in disqualification.
7. Judging & Decisions
Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of judges appointed by Talentbank, based on innovation, feasibility, clarity, impact, and presentation. Alignment with Talentbank’s business goals may influence judging outcomes. All decisions by Talentbank are final and binding, with no appeals allowed.
8. No Employment Guarantee
Participation does not guarantee employment or internships. Only top-performing teams may be considered for further opportunities, which remain subject to interviews and additional evaluations.
9. Disqualification
Talentbank reserves the right to disqualify any participant for misconduct, plagiarism, misrepresentation, or breach of these terms.
10. Media & Publicity Consent
By participating, you consent to Talentbank photographing, recording, or filming you, and to the use of your name, institution, and likeness in any media for marketing, educational, or promotional purposes without further approval or payment. If you wish to opt out, you must notify Talentbank in writing before participating.
11. Privacy & Data Protection
Talentbank collects and processes personal data in accordance with the Malaysian Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (PDPA), including:
Your data may be used for:
We may share your data with judges, mentors, university representatives, and sponsors/industry partners (where you have given consent). All data is securely stored on encrypted servers accessible only to authorised Talentbank personnel. You may request access, correction, withdrawal of consent, or deletion of your data (after event completion) by contacting boardroom@talentbank.io.
12. Limitation of Liability
Talentbank and its partners are not responsible for technical failures, internet disruptions, data loss, or other unforeseen circumstances affecting participation or results.
13. Amendments & Cancellations
Talentbank may cancel, modify, or postpone any aspect of the Challenge at its sole discretion without prior notice, including rules, timelines, formats, prizes, and judging criteria.
14. Acceptance of Terms
By joining the Challenge, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to comply with these Terms & Conditions in full.
If you do not agree to these Terms & Conditions, do not participate.
Terms & Conditions
By participating in the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge (“Challenge”), you agree to the following terms, which combine all rules, policies, and notices applicable to this event. Talentbank Group (“Talentbank”) may amend these terms at any time without prior notice, and participants are encouraged to review them regularly.
1. Participation & Eligibility
Participation in the Challenge is voluntary. Talentbank shall not be liable for any loss, injury, or damages (direct or indirect) incurred before, during, or after the Challenge. Unless otherwise approved by Talentbank, participants must be current students or recent graduates from recognised institutions. Talentbank reserves the right to verify eligibility at any stage.
2. Participant Responsibilities & Expenses
All expenses (transportation, accommodation, meals, materials, etc.) are the responsibility of participants unless explicitly stated otherwise in writing. If participating as a team, all members must contribute meaningfully to their submission and resolve any internal disputes independently.
3. Code of Conduct
All participants must:
4. Submissions & Intellectual Property Rights
All ideas, proposals, and materials (“Submissions”) remain the intellectual property of the participants. However, by joining the Challenge, you grant Talentbank a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free, and fully transferable licence to use, adapt, reproduce, publish, improve, commercialise, and distribute your Submission for educational, promotional, strategic, and commercial purposes without the need for further approval, attribution, or compensation. You waive all rights to:
5. Non-Disclosure of Sensitive Information
Do not include confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information in your Submission. Talentbank will not be responsible for any unauthorised use or disclosure of such information.
6. Use of Tools & AI
Participants may use digital tools and artificial intelligence to support their work, but all Submissions must reflect original thinking and genuine effort. Over-reliance on automated content may result in disqualification.
7. Judging & Decisions
Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of judges appointed by Talentbank, based on innovation, feasibility, clarity, impact, and presentation. Alignment with Talentbank’s business goals may influence judging outcomes. All decisions by Talentbank are final and binding, with no appeals allowed.
8. No Employment Guarantee
Participation does not guarantee employment or internships. Only top-performing teams may be considered for further opportunities, which remain subject to interviews and additional evaluations.
9. Disqualification
Talentbank reserves the right to disqualify any participant for misconduct, plagiarism, misrepresentation, or breach of these terms.
10. Media & Publicity Consent
By participating, you consent to Talentbank photographing, recording, or filming you, and to the use of your name, institution, and likeness in any media for marketing, educational, or promotional purposes without further approval or payment. If you wish to opt out, you must notify Talentbank in writing before participating.
11. Privacy & Data Protection
Talentbank collects and processes personal data in accordance with the Malaysian Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (PDPA), including:
Your data may be used for:
We may share your data with judges, mentors, university representatives, and sponsors/industry partners (where you have given consent). All data is securely stored on encrypted servers accessible only to authorised Talentbank personnel. You may request access, correction, withdrawal of consent, or deletion of your data (after event completion) by contacting boardroom@talentbank.io.
12. Limitation of Liability
Talentbank and its partners are not responsible for technical failures, internet disruptions, data loss, or other unforeseen circumstances affecting participation or results.
13. Amendments & Cancellations
Talentbank may cancel, modify, or postpone any aspect of the Challenge at its sole discretion without prior notice, including rules, timelines, formats, prizes, and judging criteria.
14. Acceptance of Terms
By joining the Challenge, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to comply with these Terms & Conditions in full.
If you do not agree to these Terms & Conditions, do not participate.
General Information
Q: What is the Talentbank Boardroom Challenge?
A nationwide innovation competition where undergraduates and alumni from Malaysian universities pitch bold, practical solutions to challenges in education and graduate careers.
Q: Who can participate?
All undergraduates and alumni from public and private universities in Malaysia are eligible, regardless of field of study or CGPA.
Q: Do I need to pay to join?
No, participation is completely free.
Q: Can I join as an individual?
Yes, you can join solo or form a team of up to four members.
Q: What are the prizes?
Winners receive trophies, certificates, national exposure, and the chance to network with industry leaders.
Q: Will my university be recognised if my team wins?
Yes, winning institutions will be highlighted as part of the pioneer batch and displayed on Talentbank’s website.
Q: What makes this competition different from others?
You’ll get real boardroom exposure, mentorship from industry leaders, and direct recognition by top employers.
Q: Is international participation allowed?
Currently, the challenge is open to Malaysian university students and alumni only.
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Before Submission
Q: How do I register my team?
Form your team (or join solo), choose a team name, and complete the interest form on the official website.
Q: What should my proposal include?
Explain the problem, your proposed solution, its creativity, practicality, and potential impact. Supporting visuals or slides are encouraged.
Q: What file formats are accepted?
PDF, PPT, or DOCX formats only.
Q: Can I edit my proposal after submission?
Yes, you may resubmit before the deadline. The latest submission will be considered final.
Q: Do I need approval from my university before submitting?
No, students may submit independently, though universities are encouraged to support their participants.
Q: Can my idea be something I previously worked on?
Yes, as long as it is original, owned by your team, and relevant to the competition themes.
Q: How many teams can represent one university?
There is no limit. Multiple teams from the same university may join.
Q: Can I participate in more than one team?
No, each individual may only join one team to ensure fairness.
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Qualifying Round
Q: How will submissions be evaluated?
Proposals are assessed on creativity, practicality, clarity, and potential impact.
Q: What happens if my team qualifies?
Successful teams will be assigned a mentor to refine their ideas before the next stage.
Q: Will unsuccessful teams be notified?
Yes, all teams will receive an email update on their application status.
Q: Who are the mentors?
Industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and senior leaders from Talentbank’s network of employers and partners.
Q: How many teams will move on to the next stage?
Only shortlisted teams will proceed, based on the quality of submissions.
Q: Will feedback be given to all teams?
Yes, but the level of detail may vary depending on submission volume.
Q: What is expected during the mentorship stage?
Teams will refine their proposals, strengthen their presentations, and prepare to face the judges.
Q: Is there an interview before the final stage?
No formal interview — shortlisted teams go directly into mentorship and presentation prep.
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Mentorship Stage
Q: How are mentors assigned?
Mentors are matched based on the nature of your idea and their area of expertise.
Q: What is the role of the mentor?
They provide feedback, guide you on refining your proposal, and prepare you for the final presentation.
Q: How often will teams meet their mentors?
It depends on your mentor’s availability, but at least one structured session is guaranteed.
Q: Can mentors influence the judging process?
No. Mentors only support your preparation; judging is conducted independently.
Q: Can we request a different mentor if there’s a mismatch?
Yes, if valid reasons are given, Talentbank will review and consider reassignment.
Q: Will mentorship be conducted online or in person?
It may be conducted either way, depending on logistics and mutual agreement.
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Grand Finale & Awards Presentation
Q: Where will the Grand Finale take place?
The final presentations will be held in the Talentbank Boardroom.
Q: Who will be the judges?
Senior leaders from Talentbank.
Q: What will finalists need to prepare?
A presentation of their refined proposal, supported by slides or other visuals, to pitch live in front of the judging panel.
Q: Will there be media coverage?
Yes, finalists and winners will receive national exposure through Talentbank’s media and employer networks.
Q: Will the Grand Finale be open to the public?
No, only Talentbank representatives will attend.
Q: How are winners selected?
Based on judging criteria including idea quality, practicality, impact, and presentation performance.
Q: What happens after the Awards Presentation?
Winning teams will be recognised publicly, and their institutions listed permanently on Talentbank’s website.
Q: Can non-finalists attend the Awards Presentation?
Attendance is by invitation only, but highlights will be shared online afterwards.
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After the Competition
Q: Will the winning ideas be implemented?
Talentbank and partners will explore opportunities to support the execution of winning proposals.
Q: Will participants receive certificates?
Yes, all finalists will receive certificates; winners will get additional recognition.
Q: How will winners be promoted after the event?
Through Talentbank’s website, social media, media partners, and employer networks.
Q: Will my CV be shared with employers?
Yes, top participants will have their CVs circulated to Talentbank’s network of employers.
Q: Can teams continue working with Talentbank after the challenge?
Yes, there may be opportunities for internships, collaborations, or further development of your ideas.
Q: Will there be future editions of the Challenge?
Yes, but only the pioneer batch will carry the recognition of being the first cohort.