BANDUNG – Students from the Medical Study Program of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro (FK Undip) once again achieved national recognition by winning a Gold Medal, Third Runner-Up, Favorite Poster, and The Most Favorite Poster at the Nusantara Creative Competition (NCC) 3, organized by Setara Prisma Nusantara Institute (Nusantara Muda) in collaboration with TEDC Polytechnic Bandung on April 11–12, 2026.
The FK Undip student team consisted of Dhiya Sahra Khasanah, Syifa Nur Malaka Dewi, Panny Manullang, Maisha Rayya Ghita Kalani, and Maritza Bintang Rismadha, under the supervision of Arlita Leniseptaria Antari, S.Si., M.Si.
In the competition, the team introduced an innovative mouthwash made from hibiscus flower extract (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.) as an alcohol-free herbal mouthwash alternative. The product was developed by utilizing the natural antibacterial properties of hibiscus flowers to help inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause oral and dental health problems.
One of the team members, Dhiya Sahra Khasanah, explained that the innovation was inspired by the high prevalence of dental caries in Indonesia based on the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI), while also serving as a continuation of their supervisor’s research focusing on hibiscus-based products.
“At NCC 3, our team developed an innovative mouthwash made from hibiscus flower extract. We utilized the flower’s natural antibacterial properties to create an alternative herbal mouthwash that is expected to be safer because it is alcohol-free,” Dhiya explained.
The competition process began with an essay selection stage before the finalists presented their innovations through poster exhibitions and final presentation sessions. Among all participants in the health subtheme category, the Faculty of Medicine Undip team successfully won a Gold Medal and advanced to the final presentation round competing for the grand championship, eventually securing Third Runner-Up.
Dhiya revealed that one of the biggest challenges during the competition preparation was balancing the contest preparations with academic responsibilities and thesis work. “The biggest challenge was time management because at that time we were also preparing our respective theses. However, we continued to divide tasks and support one another throughout the preparation process,” she said.
In addition to winning the Gold Medal and Third Runner-Up, the team also received the Favorite Poster and The Most Favorite Poster awards. According to Dhiya, this achievement was supported by a creative presentation strategy that combined educational material with elements of drama and musical performance, making it engaging for both the judges and fellow participants.
This achievement also reflects the support of the Faculty of Medicine Undip in encouraging students to actively develop innovations and participate in scientific competitions at both national and international levels. An academic environment that supports research and student creativity has become one of the key factors in the development of the project.
Through this accomplishment, the Faculty of Medicine Undip students hope that more students will be encouraged to explore new ideas, develop innovations, and use competitions as opportunities for learning while contributing positively to society.
“Competitions are not only about winning or losing, but also about the learning process, developing critical thinking skills, teamwork, and the courage to present ideas. We hope more students will confidently bring pride to the institution through meaningful innovations,” Dhiya concluded. (Public Relations of FK Undip/Saradita)
