Sea x OpenAI Regional Codex Hackathon - Malaysia
🚨 IMPORTANT: APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
All team applications must be submitted via our Official Google Form:
👉 CLICK HERE TO APPLY VIA GOOGLE FORM
(Note: Registering on Luma alone does not complete your application. Please submit the Google Form to be considered.)
Sea and OpenAI are working together to support Southeast Asia’s AI ecosystem, combining OpenAI’s models and tools with Sea’s regional reach to help developers turn ideas into practical solutions.
Building on the positive response we've seen across the region, we're thrilled to bring the Sea x OpenAI Codex Hackathon to Malaysia on 5 December. This year, we're challenging Malaysia's ambitious builders to solve unmet needs with AI and turn meaningful problems into impactful solutions
One day. Build something real.
This event is for builders who are already comfortable using AI coding tools and shipping production-grade code - not an introductory workshop for those just getting started with AI.
We're bringing together serious builders - engineers and founders who are already building with AI and want to push further. Expect to move fast, make sharp decisions, and come with a problem worth solving.
Only 40 team slots available, with each team consisting of 3-4 members. Applications close by 6 Nov 2026 (Friday). If there are more applications received than team slots, teams will be shortlisted based on the quality of their application. Applicants will be notified of their registration outcome progressively from 18 Nov, and all teams will hear back by 27 Nov.
Guests of Honour
Nik Emir Din, Head of External Affairs, Sea
Jon Sugihara - Head of AI Success Engineering, OpenAI, Asia-Pacific
Build Directions
We're focusing on three directions for this hackathon. Your project can tackle one or span across several - the problem is yours to define.
(1) Autonomous & Adaptive AI
Build agents that can be trusted to operate without constant human oversight - handling the unexpected and staying reliable when real-world conditions change.
(2) AI-Native Products & Operations
Many products today use AI as an add-on. This direction is about what products and operations look like when AI shapes them more fundamentally.
(3) Deep Domain AI
Build AI that goes deep in a specific field - reflecting how work is actually done, not a simplified version of it. The value comes from genuine domain understanding, not general capability.
Prizes
🥇 1st Place: $30,000 USD in OpenAI API credits
🥈 2nd Place: $15,000 USD in OpenAI API credits
🥉 3rd Place: $5,000 USD in OpenAI API credits
All members of the top 5 teams will receive one year of ChatGPT Pro.
Teams & Registration
Attendance is capped at up to 40 teams.
This hackathon is team-based. Each member must apply individually and indicate their team name in their application. Teams must have 3-4 members.
Applications close by 6 Nov 2026 (Friday). If there are more applications received than team slots, teams will be shortlisted based on the quality of their application. Applicants will be notified of their registration outcome progressively from 18 Nov, and all teams will hear back by 26 Nov.
Agenda
08:00 AM: Doors Open & Registration (all participants expected by 09:00 AM)
08:15 AM: Breakfast and Wifi setup / Codex activation
9:00 AM: Welcome & Opening
10:00 AM: Hacking Begins
1:00 PM: Lunch (working lunch to maximise hacking time)
5:00 PM: Code Freeze & Submissions
5:15 PM: Round One Judging (teams will present to judges in rotation)
6:45 PM: Dinner
7:30 PM: Round 2 Judging (top five teams will present to judges on stage)
8:40 PM: Awards & Closing
9:00 PM: Event Ends
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is this event open to everyone?
Anyone can sign up for the event, however it is recommended for builders who are already comfortable using AI coding tools and shipping production-grade code. Applications that do not meet this bar will not be shortlisted.
2) Can I join as an individual?
No. All applications must be submitted as a pre-formed team of 3-4 members. Each member must apply individually and indicate the same team name in their application.
3) Can I join virtually?
No. This is a fully in-person event in Malaysia. All team members must be present throughout the entire day or risk being disqualified.
4) What are the key dates?
Applications open: 9 October 2026 (Friday)
Applications close: 6 November 2026 (Friday)
Notification of registration outcome: From 16 November 2026 (Monday), all teams will hear back.
Hackathon: 5 December 2026 (Saturday), 08:30 AM - 9:00 PM
5) How will teams be selected?
Applications are reviewed and shortlisted based on the team's technical background, what they intend to build, and alignment with the hackathon's build directions. Space is limited to 40 teams.
6) Can we prepare or start building before the event?
You're welcome to arrive with ideas in mind - but all building must take place on the day. Pre-built code or existing projects shall not be submitted.
The build directions shared here are intentionally broad. More context will be provided on the day - come with an open mind and be ready to build from scratch.
7) What tools and resources will be provided?
Each participant will receive access to Codex during the event. Details on tooling setup will be shared with successful applicants during the event day.
8) What do I need to bring?
Bring your own device and charger. Come with ideas you are excited to explore and the energy to build from the moment hacking starts.
9) What will be provided on the day?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided. Basic setup including tables, chairs, and power sockets will be available throughout the venue.
10) How does judging work?
All teams will present to judges in rotation during Round One. Shortlisted finalists will then present on stage. Teams will be evaluated on problem framing, quality of build, depth of thinking, and how effectively Codex was leveraged in the build process.