It was a momentous achievement for UTAR as its
members were recognised at the 31st Malaysia Toray Science Foundation (MTSF)
Prize Presentation Ceremony, held at the InterContinental Hotel in Kuala
Lumpur. Organised by the MTSF, the annual event was dedicated to fostering
scientific innovation and progress in Malaysia.
Among the celebrated winners were UTAR students Chan
Wen Jun and Tai Xin Yi and UTAR academic Ms Harttini Neeni binti Hatta,
along with their academic partners, who demonstrated exceptional talent and
dedication in their research and educational initiatives.
Chan (fourth from right) receiving
his certificate
From left: Prof Yap, Chan, UTAR
President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat and Dr Yap
Chan Wen Jun, a Master’s student in Biological
Science from UTAR Faculty of Science, received the Science and Technology
Research Grant for his project titled Construction of Chimeric Flavivirus
Envelope Proteins by Domain Swapping. Collaborating with Prof Dr Yap Sook
Fan from M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Dr Yap Moh
Lan from the Faculty of Science, the research aimed to address the
challenges of antibody-dependent enhancement in dengue infections by
developing chimeric flavivirus envelope proteins as a potential vaccine
solution. Chan expressed his gratitude and said, “I feel honoured and lucky
to have received this grant, which will further support my team’s research
journey.”
Tai (fourth from right) receiving her
certificate
From left: Ms Tai, Dr Tee and Dr Tang
Tai Xin Yi, another awardee pursuing a Master’s
degree in Science, collaborated with Assoc Prof Dr Tang Pek Yee and ChM Ts
Dr Tee Shiau Foon, academics from the Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering
and Science. Their project, exploring The Interaction Between Oral Bacteria
and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Schizophrenia, was recognised with the
Science and Technology Research Grant, enabling them to delve deeper into
the role of mitochondrial gene expression in mental health. Tai reflected on
the significance of the award, and said, “This award acknowledges the impact
of our research, inspiring us to pursue scientific advancements that benefit
the Malaysian community.”
Ms Harttini (fourth from right)
receiving her certificate
From left: Ms Harttini and Ms Lee
In the realm of educational innovation, UTAR Centre
for Foundation Studies (CFS) academic Ms Harttini Neeni binti Hatta, who
collaborated with another CFS academic, Ms Lee Cin Dee, received the Science
Education Award (Consolation) for her project titled Integrating Stop Motion
Animations as a Pedagogical Tool. The project used stop-motion animation to
illustrate gene expression, enhancing students’ comprehension of complex
biological processes. Highlighting the tool’s effectiveness, Ms Harttini
explained, “By slowing down biological processes, students can grasp
intricate details more easily, and the cost-effectiveness of this method
makes it accessible to educators everywhere.”
The award ceremony acknowledged the recipients’
impressive accomplishments, each of which underscores Malaysia’s commitment
to scientific excellence and education. The recognition granted to UTAR’s
students and educators not only celebrates their success but also aligns
with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality
Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 3
(Good Health and Well-being). By recognising these achievements, MTSF
supports innovations that bridge education, research, and public health.
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