Unimal Engineering Students Showcase Innovation at 2024 Exhibition and Bazaar by Center of Excellence in Innovation

Engineering students from various study programs at Universitas Malikussaleh (Unimal) held the Chemical Engineering Competition 2024 Exhibition and Bazaar, which took place from October 21 to 24, 2024, at the Unimal campus. Sponsored by the Center of Excellence in Innovation (PUI-PT) at Universitas Malikussaleh, the event focused on the development and innovation of renewable and environmentally-friendly materials.

The exhibition featured various innovative products, including the flagship products of PUI-PT Technoplast, which utilize recycled materials and biomaterial composites. Some of the displayed products included:

• Plastic Pellets from Empty Palm Oil Bunch Fiber (TKKS) and HDPE.
• Recycled Plastic Composites from HDPE and PP, processed using the latest technology.
• Sagotek Products such as plant pots, plates, and bowls made from sago flour, which are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

According to the event’s organizing committee, the exhibition aimed to promote sustainable material-based innovations and introduce the work of engineering students with potential industrial applications.

“This exhibition not only showcases student creativity but also serves as a platform to introduce environmentally-friendly material technology, expected to support sustainable development,” explained the committee chair.

The exhibition attracted interest from various groups, including lecturers, students, local entrepreneurs, and representatives from the local government, who appreciated the students' efforts in developing technological solutions relevant to environmental and societal needs. Visitors also had the opportunity to see the production process of these products through demonstrations held at several booths.

During the event, Vinkhan and Roji, two of the student representatives at the PUI-PT booth, actively engaged with visitors, answering questions about the materials and technologies showcased. Their explanations helped the audience understand the importance of sustainable materials in supporting environmentally conscious industries.

“We were excited to share our knowledge and experiences with visitors. It’s rewarding to see the interest in these sustainable innovations,” said Vinkhan.

One of the student exhibitors expressed that the event was highly beneficial for them as future engineers.

“We are proud to contribute to the development of environmentally-friendly materials. Through this exhibition, we learned how to market innovative products that align with community needs,” he said.

In addition to the exhibition, the event also featured a food bazaar and the sale of creative products made by Unimal students. Visitors enjoyed various local products while gaining deeper insights into the material technologies showcased.

With the successful organization of this exhibition, Universitas Malikussaleh aims to further encourage innovation and creativity among engineering students in creating technology-based sustainable solutions.