Recently, three Petroleum Engineering students from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), secured a Top 8 placement in a PetroBowl-style competition held as part of DERRICK 2025, organised by Politeknik Energi dan Mineral (PEM) Akamigas.

Representing APU under Team Petronova were Lucas Chiong Ju Wynne, Muhammad Satria Raafi Irvia, and Maahika Kamal Malkani.

The team was mentored and supported by Ir Dr Juhairi Aris Muhamad Shuhili (Lecturer, School of Engineering at APU) and Mr Muhammad Safri Basruddin (Lecturer cum Engineering Lab Technician, School of Engineering at APU), alongside Petroleum Engineering students; Salsabila Hukma Shabiyyah and Israa Mohammed Ibrahim, whose guidance and commitment played an important role in the team’s preparation.

The competition follows a PetroBowl-style format, where teams from various participating universities across the region are challenged through a fast-paced quiz that tests both technical knowledge and industry awareness, covering petroleum engineering concepts, energy sector developments, and broader global oil and gas issues, while requiring quick thinking and effective teamwork under pressure.

Despite having only a few months to prepare, the team demonstrated strong teamwork, adaptability, and technical understanding throughout the competition.

Through this experience, the team had the opportunity to:

1. Strengthen their understanding of petroleum engineering concepts in a competitive setting.
2. Develop critical thinking and teamwork skills under time pressure.
3. Gain exposure to a regional-level academic competition environment.
    

In addition to that, the team benefited from engaging with peers from other universities, exchanging insights, and experiencing the dynamics of a high-level academic competition.

While the team did not secure a podium finish, their achievement reflects a commendable effort.

Their performance underscores the importance of dedication, resilience, and effective collaboration, while also demonstrating how perseverance, strategic thinking, and continuous learning can enable students to excel in challenging, competitive academic environments.