Atlas Robotics has been named the winner of the Korea-ASEAN AI Youth Festa 2025, held in conjunction with Startup ASEAN Summit 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. This recognition highlights the company’s pioneering work in applying artificial intelligence to sustainability challenges, particularly in the domains of clean energy, economic growth through efficiency, and marine ecosystem resilience.
AtlasRobotics’ breakthrough solutions leverage advanced AI-driven analysis and modeling to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing modern trade: the impact of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from global shipping logistics. Rising ocean temperatures, driven by global emissions, are accelerating biofouling-the accumulation of microorganisms, plants, and algae on marine infrastructure. Biofouling not only increases maintenance costs but also reduces energy efficiency across shipping and offshore industries, contributing further to emissions.
By integrating machine learning algorithms with advancements in underwater robotics, AtlasRobotics enables early detection and mitigation of biofouling. This innovation directly supports SDG 7: Affordable & Clean Energy, by improving the efficiency of shipping, and SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth, by reducing operational costs, creating new opportunities for sustainable employment, and minimizing the need for risky diver-based inspections through AI-powered remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). These autonomous systems enhance safety while expanding the scope of underwater maintenance and monitoring.
“With AI, we’re building technology that allows the maritime industry to operate cleaner, smarter, and more sustainably. Our vision is to empower ship operators with the insights they need — not only to reduce costs, but to drive a future with cleaner ships, healthier oceans, and a more sustainable planet,” said Toh Jia Le, Head of AI Development at AtlasRobotics.
Zuo Shizhe, Head of Business Development, added that the achievement underscores the company’s broader mission. “Winning this competition validates our belief that AI and robotics can serve as powerful force multipliers for cleaner energy, stronger economies, and greater environmental responsibility.”
The award positions AtlasRobotics as a leader in AI-enabled sustainability solutions across Southeast Asia and beyond. By aligning innovation with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the company demonstrates how startups can drive both economic growth and environmental stewardship.
About AtlasRobotics
AtlasRobotics is a technology company dedicated to advancing AI-powered solutions for sustainability and efficiency. With expertise in machine vision, underwater robotics, diagnostics, and AI-assisted sense-making, AtlasRobotics partners globally to deliver innovations that reduce emissions, meet dual-use needs, and foster sustainable growth. Its portfolio includes customised underwater robotic platforms and underwater AIs designed to revolutionise marine inspections, ensuring public security, safer working conditions and more resilient infrastructure.
