UTAR Faculty of Science (FSc) Master of Science in Biological Science student Shawn Samson Ong Tze Xian was awarded the first runner-up for his skilful oral presentation at the International Symposium on Essential Oils, Plants, Cosmetics and Health 2023 (ISEPCoH 2023).

Held from 11 to 13 September 2023, the hybrid symposium was held at the School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Health Campus in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan and via Zoom.

Themed, ‘Essentials Oils & Plants, Natural Products & Cosmetics, Health Sciences & Public Health’, the symposium was organised by the School of Health Sciences, USM and Universitas Andalas (UNAND), Indonesia. The ISEPCoH 2023 aimed to provide a platform for information and knowledge sharing among attendees and experts especially in the aspects of essential oils, plants, personal care products, cosmetics and their benefits to health. The symposium also aimed to discuss various issues, challenges and discoveries on the safety and health efficacy related to the essential oils, plants, personal care products and cosmetics industries.

Ong walked away with a cash prize worth RM50 and a certificate of participation.

Supervised by his respective supervisors Dr Tan Gim Cheong, Dr Kwong Phek Jin, and Ms Chan Mun Yee, and with the support of FSc Deputy Dean for R&D and Postgraduate Programmes Dr Phoon Lee Quen, Ong won the first runner-up prize in oral presentation for his thesis project titled “Potential of Kaempferia Parviflora extract in ameliorating male infertility induced by fenitrothion in murine model” under the Health Sciences and Public Health category.

The study explored long-term exposure to pesticides such as Fenitrothion (FNT) which reduces sperm quality, thus affecting married couples and reducing the human population worldwide. Alternatively, naturopathy such as herbs can also be used to ameliorate male infertility. Kaempferia parviflora (KP) is believed to boost sexual performance and reduce oxidative stress in men. The study aimed to study the potential of KP extract in ameliorating the reproductive impairment induced by FNT in a murine model.

“The symposium gave me a great opportunity to build networks with peers. By participating in the symposium, researchers may get exposed to new ways of conducting research and discover how to be more productive,” explained Ong. He added, “Hard work and patience are the best companions towards success. Strong determination to never give up and continuous support from UTAR supervisors and friends made me win this award. Thank you all.”

Aimed at promoting professional development, field collaborations, research networks, and industry involvement in the aspects of essential oils, plants, cosmetics and health, the ISEPCoH 2023 saw a total of 87 participants.