Malaysian students win accolades at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) 2008

Four local winners did Malaysia proud with their innovative research Syed Mohd Esmat Hussaini Bin Syed Mohd Ridzuan Winner of US$1000.00 scholarship presented by the National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance-The Lemelson Foundation for his project entitled Hybrid Electromagnetic Drum Brake System

Kuala Lumpur, May 20, 2008 – Four Malaysian students did the country proud by clinching two awards at the recently concluded Intel International Science and Engineering Fair 2008 (Intel ISEF) in Atlanta, USA.

17 year-old Syed Mohd Esmat Hussaini Bin Syed Mohd Ridzuan was awarded a US$1000.00 scholarship for his project entitled Hybrid Electromagnetic Drum Brake System. Syed Mohd, representing Mara Junior Science College, Taiping, won the special award presented by the National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance-The Lemelson Foundation. Prizes awarded under this category are based on a project’s creativity, technological innovation and commercial promise.

Syed’s Mohd’s Hybrid Electromagnetic Drum Brake System project was developed based on the conventional Hydraulic Drum Brake System (HDBS), and is designed to improve upon the operation of the latter system. Specifically, his project work aims to increase the aspects of effectiveness, sensitivity, consistency, simplicity, weight, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness of a conventional drum brake system. From left to right: 16 year-old Fadhlina Abdul Bashir, Syahrina Hafiza Ahmad Salim, 18 and Nur Farawahidah Mohd Yusof, 18 claimed the third place award for their research on Kadok (Piper sarmentosum) as an Anti-Ulcerogenic Agent.

Meanwhile, three female students from Tunku Kurshiah College, Seremban clinched a third place award for team projects which was presented by Science News. 18 year-olds Syahrina Hafiza Ahmad Salim and Nur Farawahidah Mohd Yusof, and 16 year-old Fadhlina Abdul Bashir, were presented with a US$1,000 award for their research on Kadok (Piper sarmentosum) as an Anti-Ulcerogenic Agent. Their research aims to use Kadok plant as a natural remedy to prevent and heal stomach ulcers.

“I am pleased to note that our four young scientists have joined the league of winners that Malaysia has consistently produced since year 2000. The “Malaysia Boleh” spirit is evident amongst Malaysian youths and we need to continuously nurture and encourage their talent and skills to compete and win in the international arena,” said Ryaz Patel, Country Manager of Intel Malaysia.

Patel added that Intel Malaysia will continue to promote the acquisition of 21st century learning skills such inquiry-based learning, as a way to spur the growth of critical thinkers among Malaysian youths who represent the next wave of innovators for the country.

This year’s Intel ISEF attracted a total of 1,557 young aspiring scientists and inventors from more than 50 countries. 10 Malaysian students represented the country in this year’s event. Through Intel’s sponsorship, Malaysia have had 68 students participating in the annual event and have thus far produced 13 winners, including the four this year.
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 50 countries.

To learn more about Intel's global commitment to education, visit http://www.intel.com/education/.