Carnival of Research and Innovation 2024 (CRI 2024)

8-9 September 2024

Dewan Keusahawan, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Dasuki Sul'ain and Dr. Nurhidanatasha Abu Bakar from the Biomedical Science Programme, PPSK, USM, have once again stolen the spotlight at the Carnival of Research and Innovation 2024 (CRI 2024)! Held on September 8-9 at Dewan Keusahawanan, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), this prestigious national event witnessed the PPSK’s researchers achieving remarkable success: Dr. Mohd Dasuki brought home the Gold Medal Award, and Dr. Nurhidanatasha earned the Silver Medal Award!

Leading with innovation, the Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Dasuki’s team presented the D'PREZZGO Melaleuca cajuputi Essential Oil Formulation — an exciting, all-natural antidepressant alternative that harnesses the unique properties of local M. cajuputi essential oil. Affordable, eco-friendly, and packed with antidepressant compounds, this groundbreaking formulation has shown significant results in reducing depression safely and effectively by lowering corticotropin-releasing hormone. This visionary product is paving the way for safer, accessible mental health treatments.

Meanwhile, Dr. Nurhidanatasha Abu Bakar and her team claimed the Silver Medal with their cutting-edge Quercus infectoria Gall Extract Supplement, developed to work synergistically with the antimalarial drug artemisinin. Their pioneering research has revealed a potent partner drug or compound or extract in the fight against malaria, effectively boosting drug efficacy and combating resistance. Identifying ellagic acid as a key component in Q. infectoria, her team's innovation holds a promise for affordable, non-toxic malaria treatments and could redefine antimalarial therapy.