ULM Pharmacy Students Win International Champion with Nano-Gum-Based Dental Caries Prevention Innovation from Limau Kuit Peel
Banjarmasin – Students from the University of Lambung Mangkurat (ULM) have once again achieved a proud achievement. Two Pharmacy students, Ira Qadariah and Ashaku Dioktara, won second place in the Industrial Biotechnology Subtheme – International Essay Competition (IEC) held by the State University of Malang on October 22, 2025.
In this international scientific essay competition, the ULM team presented an innovative idea entitled “DENTAL-NALIKU: An Innovation in Dental Caries Prevention Based on Nano-Gum From Limau Kuit Peel Through the Application of Green Technology to Realize Indonesia Emas 2045.”
This idea arose from concern over the high rate of dental caries, which, according to global data, affects 60–90% of children and nearly 100% of adults, while in Indonesia it reaches 82.8% of the population. Limited access to dental services in rural areas and dependence on imported chemical-based products pose serious challenges to public health.
Based on these issues, Ira and Ashaku explored the local potential of South Kalimantan. They utilized lime peel (Citrus hystrix) — often discarded — as the raw material for their innovative natural nano-gum for caries prevention.
Lime peel contains flavonoids, triterpenoids, tannins, alkaloids, and essential oils, which have been shown to have antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, two major bacteria that cause dental caries.
Through a green technology approach, this idea not only presents an effective and environmentally friendly oral health solution but also supports the sustainable use of local biodiversity. The presentation, conducted entirely in English, emphasized the ability of ULM students to compete on the global stage with confidence and international competence.
This achievement demonstrates Lambung Mangkurat University’s continued commitment to fostering the development of the interests, talents, and potential of its academic community in various fields, including academics, research, and innovation. ULM continuously fosters a scientific culture and creativity so that students not only excel academically but also provide real solutions to societal and global challenges.
Ira and Ashaku’s achievements serve as inspiration that a spirit of innovation can be born from a concern for local issues, and are a small step toward realizing Indonesia Emas 2045—through the scientific work of the nation’s children that is grounded in local potential but with a global perspective.
