Intel moulds future scientists and inventors of Malaysia

10 Malaysian students selected to compete at the upcoming Intel Science and Engineering Fair 2008 in Atlanta, USA

10 high spirited Malaysian students who will be competing at the annual Intel International Science and Engineering Fair 2008 (Intel ISEF) in Atlanta, Georgia, USA from May 11-17

Kuala Lumpur, May 9, 2008 – 10 talented Malaysian students will be competing among 1,557 young aspiring scientists and inventors at the International Science and Engineering Fair 2008 (Intel ISEF) in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Set to be held on 11- 16 May 2008, Intel ISEF is the world’s largest pre-college science competition with over 50 participating countries competing for scholarships and awards worth up to US$ 4 million.

This year, Malaysian participants will be showcasing their creative innovations that can potentially address issues that have stumped scientists for years. Among them are creating an online system for universal data regulation and management; inventing a Hybrid Electomagnetic Drum Brake System; developing a two-way communication method for the deaf and mute; finding treatments and prevention of stomach ulcer and gout; and developing an alternative way to produce electrical energy. These impressive inventions will be judged by more than 1,200 science, engineering, and industry professionals.

This year also marks the 12th anniversary of Intel’s title sponsorship of the fair, one of Intel’s key education initiatives under the company’s $100 million annual commitment to improving education around the world.

Y.Bhg. Dato' Haji Alimuddin Haji Mohd Dom, Director General of Education, Ministry of Education accompanied by Tuan Haji Ryaz Patel, Country Manager, Intel Malaysia congratulating and cheering the 10 Malaysian students who will be competing for the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair 2008.

“Intel recognizes the importance of providing opportunities for students to present their innovative ideas and sharing their passion for research on a globally recognized platform. It is
our role to continuously mould the next generation of scientists and investors by encouraging
them to push the boundaries of science research and eventually lead the world into the next generation of discovery, knowledge and prosperity,” said Ryaz Patel, country manager of Intel Malaysia. “The Intel ISEF is an investment in the next generation of scientists.”

“Providing the finalists with an international platform like the Intel ISEF to compete in is one of the many great opportunities for students to gain knowledge and insights into their future. The challenges they face while exploring the journey of discovery will prepare them to succeed in a knowledge-based economy,” said Dato’ Haji Alimuddin Haji Mohd Dom, Director General Education, Ministry of Education.

“Over the years, we can see the projects produced by students have become increasingly advanced. This shows the growing passion for problem-solving and an enthusiasm for discovery amongst students that need to be fostered to eventually become a reality,” added Alimuddin.

The Intel ISEF, sponsored by Intel since 1996, is the world's largest celebration of science, showcasing the world's most promising young scientists and inventors. Since Intel became the title sponsor in 1996, the total number of Intel ISEF finalists has grown 40 percent – to more than 1500 students – and the number of participating countries, regions and territories has grown 70 percent – to more than 51 countries. In Malaysia alone, there are 58 students who have participated and winners produced in the competition through Intel’s sponsorship.

INTEL ISEF FINALIST INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS:

Finalist Name: Kuan Eugene
School Name: Chung Ling High School, Penang
Project Title: The Betternet: A Better Internet
Project Category: Computer Science

Finalist Name: Syed Mohd Esmat Hussaini Bin Syed Mohd Ridzuan
School Name: Mara Junior Science College, Taiping, Perak
Project Title: Hybrid Electomagnetic Drum Brake System
Project Category: Electrical and Mechanical

Finalist Name: Fatimah Thohirah Binti Abdul Halim
School Name: Sek. Men. Keb. Wangsa Melawati, Kuala Lumpur
Project Title: The potential of Neolamarkcia cadamba plant as gout treatment agent
Project Category: Biochemistry

Finalist Name: Ooi Yuan Ning
School Name: MARA Junior Science College, PDRM, Kulim, Kedah
Project Title: Sign Language System
Project Category: Computer Science

INTEL ISEF FINALIST GROUP PROJECTS:

Finalists/s Name/s: Syahrina Hafiza Ahmad Salim, Nur Farawahidah Mohd Yusof, Fadhlina Abdul Bashir
School Name: Tunku Kurshiah College, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Project Title: Kadok (Piper sarmentosum) As An Anti-Ulcerogenic Agent
Project Category: Biochemistry

Finalist/s Name/s: Abner Luther P. Kerangkas, Ahmad Uzair Zubbir, Hafizam Mahat
School Name: MARA Junior Science College, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Project Title: Alternative Electrical Energy Supply by Using Electrochemical Cell of Sea Water
Project Category: Energy and Transportation