A delegation of students from Diponegoro University (UNDIP) brought pride to Indonesia after winning a gold medal at the international event, the World Young Inventors Exhibition (WYIE) 2024. The event was held from May 16 to 18, 2024, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLCC) in Malaysia. Organized by the Asian Caucus of Invention Associations (ACIA), WYIE 2024 attracted inventors worldwide, including universities, research institutions, individual inventors, and companies.

The UNDIP student delegation, consisting of Bryant Andhika Prayoga (Chemistry 2021), Alexander Juan Radhitya Rubikso Putra (Chemistry 2021), Rayyan Nanda Syalya Lagilote (Business Administration 2021), Hanif El-Rasyid (Business Administration 2021), Katarina Aletta Sahara (Nutrition 2021), and Sonia Dini Safitri (Nutrition 2021), won the gold medal with their innovative creation “Sabun Darurat Bebas Bilas”.

This innovation, named BUNDARAN, is a sustainable, multifunctional personal care product, particularly suited for travelers. The spray soap boasts various benefits, including no need for rinsing, antibacterial properties, sun protection, and skin brightening functions. The primary ingredients are extracts and fermentation from BR25 cocoa peel (Theobroma cacao L.) and lemon basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). These ingredients possess natural antimicrobial properties and high antioxidant content.

The spray soap contains sunscreen with SPF 53.4, protecting against 97% of UVB radiation for 8 hours, and has a neutral pH of 7, making it safe for the skin. The soap is packaged in biodegradable plastic made from seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii) and dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus), supporting the 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 findings of this study are expected to promote sustainable practices in the cosmetics industry and meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly products.

As part of the International Invention, Innovation, and Technology Exhibition (ITEX), WYIE 2024 offers students the opportunity to channel their innovations in science and technology. The competition also provides a platform to understand global issues and build good relations with other countries.

The achievement of UNDIP’s student delegation at WYIE 2024 enhances the visibility of Indonesian higher education institutions on the international stage. Their innovation also makes a tangible contribution to the development of science and technology, benefiting many people. Furthermore, this success demonstrates that UNDIP students can compete and excel internationally, bringing innovative solutions to global problems. (Dhany/Sahila-Public Relations)

Source: undip.ac.id