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10 June 2008
Penang, Malaysia
Turmeric has been used for centuries for cooking and cosmetics. However, its medicinal properties have not been fully uncovered by scientists. Researchers in University Science Malaysia (USM) discovered that extracts from fresh turmeric can be used as a medicinal source to cure various types of illnesses.
Associate Prof Dr. Peh Kok Khiang from USM's Pharmacy Science Research Centre, discovered that at a very low cost, turmeric extract can be used as a remedy to cure tumours and wounds on the human skin. He hopes to bring this biotechnology innovation to consumers in the form of a creme. At the moment, he has named this creme "Microencapsulation of Curcumin and Turmeric Oil Extracted from Turmeric and Application in Cream Preparation".
Meanwhile, Prof. Ahmad Yusuff Hassan from the Mechanical Engineering Research Centre has created the ‘Throttle Lock’, which prevents motorcycle theft – with its safety features. Throttle Lock is the first of creation of its kind in Malaysia and is equipped with seven special features. It is easy to use, has strong grip, small in size and mobile, as well as water resistant.
