“When groups had to return to the drawing board after interim reviews with Maybank specialists, I saw frustration transform into resilience. They learned that in the professional world, iteration isn’t failure; it’s part of the process,” said Mr Benjamin Xue, lecturer at the Division of Industrial Design (DID).
Over 15 weeks on the DID x Maybank Singapore Design Platform, a collaboration exploring how financial services can better serve people and communities, Industrial Design students were challenged to tackle real-world financial problems. Guided by Maybank specialists and Mr Xue, the class received both industry insights and close mentorship as students researched, mapped stakeholders, and prototyped solutions that balanced creativity, user needs, and business realities.
The projects were evaluated by the Maybank Senior Management Committee, including Mr Adam Tan, Head of Community Financial Services, and Ms Helena Ooi, Head of Strategy. The strongest concept would be selected for a potential pilot.
Emerging as the first-place winner was NEST, a student-designed savings and legacy account created by Tiarra Ko, Bing Jie Liu, and Afiqah Nazarudin. Designed to empower seniors, NEST enables individuals to manage their finances while leaving behind something personal and meaningful. Features include Legacy Letters, a Generational Multiplier to enhance interest rates, and the NEST “Egg”, a protected inheritance fund that grows independently for future generations.
The runner-up project, RISE, by Cynthia Manivannan, Jacklyn Loke, and Givson Ong, focused on helping wealth-curious full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) learn, save, and invest progressively. The solution makes wealth-building more approachable while aligning with Maybank’s strategic priorities.
Securing third place was Bridge, by Anna Yong, Travis Tan, and Ashley Tan. Bridge supports Malaysians relocating to Singapore by providing early access to digital banking and payments before a full account is set up, helping newcomers navigate the financial system more smoothly.
Each project showcased creativity, problem-solving, and impact in financial design. Reflecting on the collaboration, Mr Xue added, “The Maybank partnership gave students something no classroom exercise can replicate. It’s real stakes, honest feedback, and real pivots.”
