The Federation of International Robot Sports Association (FIRA) – founded by Prof. Jong-Hwan Kim, KAIST, Korea in 1996 – is the oldest robot soccer competition in the world. From humble beginnings, FIRA has grown to a major robotics competition with the goal using sports as benchmark problems for state of the art research in robotics and other related areas. FIRA also includes the FIRA Air competition for autonomous flying robots, FIRA Challenge for robotics research with great societal benefits such as urban search and rescue robots, and FIRA Youth for the next generation of researchers. In 2018, FIRA RoboWorld Cup was held in Tai Chung, Taiwan and attracted more than 1,200 participants. And in 2019 The FIRA RoboWorld Cup was held in Changwon, South Korea and the year after, due to the covid-19 situation in the world, FIRA RoboWorld Cup had multiple events online.
"Robotics - Art of smashing impossible problems."
About Politeknik Kota Bharu (PKB) as Host of 19TH MALAYSIA FIRA CUP 2026 in 2026
Politeknik Kota Bharu (PKB), a dynamic institution under the Jabatan Pendidikan Politeknik dan Kolej Komuniti (JPPKK) in Malaysia, has been selected as the host for the 19TH MALAYSIA FIRA CUP 2026 — a landmark role that reflects its growing influence and leadership in robotics and STEM education.
As the official venue for this major national robotics event, PKB will welcome student teams, educators, industry partners, and robotics enthusiasts from across Malaysia to compete, share innovations, and collaborate in advancing educational robotics technologies. This hosting role is a testament to PKB’s commitment to excellence in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), especially in fields such as electrical engineering, robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI).
A Hub for Innovation and Youth Technology
PKB has built a strong reputation for nurturing talent in engineering and digital technologies, with active student involvement in robotics activities and competitions. Its role as a host not only provides a platform for showcasing student creativity and technical skills, but also strengthens PKB’s partnerships with educational institutions, industry leaders, and the wider robotics community.
National Spotlight
Hosting 19TH MALAYSIA FIRA CUP 2026 positions PKB at the centre of Malaysia’s robotics ecosystem, highlighting its capacity to organise large-scale, high-impact events that contribute to national STEM goals.
Educational Impact
The event will inspire future engineers and innovators, encouraging participation in robotics, AI, and advanced technologies.
Community Engagement
It brings together students, educators, and professionals in a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and competitive excellence.
Past Events
In Malaysia, FIRA began gaining momentum in the early 2007s through participation by universities, polytechnics, and schools in robotics competitions. Over time, Politeknik Malaysia became an active participant and host of FIRA-related events, including national selections and international championships.
Fira-17
Hosted by Politeknik Sultan Idris Shah
Fira-18
Hosted by Politeknik Merlimau Melaka
19TH MALAYSIA FIRA CUP 2026
Current Host : Politeknik Kota Bharu