The student delegation from Diponegoro University (UNDIP) once again brought honor to Indonesia by winning a gold medal at the 2024 international competition titled World Young Inventors Exhibition (WYIE), held from May 16-18, 2024, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLCC) in Malaysia. Organized by the Asian Caucus of Invention Associations (ACIA), the 2024 WYIE attracted inventors from around the world, including those from universities, research institutions, individual inventors, and companies.
The UNDIP student delegation, consisting of Bryant Andhika Prayoga (Chemistry class of 2021), Alexander Juan Radhitya Rubikso Putra (Chemistry class of 2021), Rayyan Nanda Syalya Lagilote (Business Administration class of 2021), Hanif El-Rasyid (Business Administration class of 2021), Katarina Aletta Sahara (Nutrition Science class of 2021), and Sonia Dini Safitri (Nutrition Science class of 2021), brought home the gold medal with their innovative work on a “No-Rinse Emergency Soap.”
Their innovative product, titled BUNDARAN, is a multifunctional, sustainable personal care product, particularly for travelers. This spray soap boasts various advantages, such as no need for rinsing, anti-bacterial properties, and the inclusion of sunscreen and skin-brightening functions. The main ingredients used are extracts and fermentation of BR25 cocoa shells (Theobroma cacao L.) and lemon basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). Both BR25 cocoa shells and lemon basil have natural antimicrobial properties and high antioxidant content.
The spray soap contains sunscreen with an SPF of 53.4, capable of protecting against 97% UVB radiation for 8 hours, and a neutral pH of 7, making it safe for the skin. The spray soap is packaged and designed with biodegradable plastic made from seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii) and dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus), supporting a circular economy and reducing plastic pollution. The chemical formulation is optimized through Response Surface Methodology (RSM).
This research combines natural ingredients, advanced optimization techniques, and eco-friendly packaging to create an ideal personal care solution for travelers. The results are expected to promote sustainable practices in the cosmetics industry and meet the growing demand for eco-friendly products.
As part of the International Invention, Innovation, and Technology Exhibition (ITEX), the 2024 WYIE provided an opportunity for students to channel their innovations in science and technology. The competition also offered a chance to engage in understanding global issues and building good relations with other countries.
The achievement of the UNDIP students delegation at the 2024 WYIE enhances the visibility of Indonesian higher education on the international stage. Their innovation also contributes significantly to the development of science and technology innovations that can benefit many people. Additionally, this success demonstrates that UNDIP students can compete and excel internationally, bringing innovative solutions to global challenges. (Dhany/Sahila-Public Relations)
