Semarang – Biology students from Diponegoro University (Undip) achieved international recognition by winning a Gold Medal at the Borneo International Innovation Creativity Competition (BIICC) 2026. Organized by the Malaysia Young Scientists Organisation (MYSO), the event took place at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, on June 19–23, 2026, bringing together young innovators, researchers, and academics from across the globe.
The Undip research team, led by Layla Witrah alongside Yolanda Christania Simbolon and supervised by Lailia Nofiana, M.Si., earned top honors for their scientific paper titled “Sarabba: Phytochemical Profile, and Health Potentials of a Bugis Heritage Beverage.” Their study highlights the health benefits of Sarabba, a traditional Bugis heritage drink, positioning it as a scientifically grounded functional beverage.
The study presented a comprehensive systematic review synthesizing more than 100 international publications. It revealed that key ingredients in Sarabba—including ginger, black pepper, cloves, nutmeg, and coconut milk—are rich in essential bioactive compounds such as gingerol, shogaol, piperine, eugenol, and medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA). These compounds provide valuable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and thermogenic properties. Furthermore, the paper identified key research gaps to guide future evidence-based development of the drink.
“This award serves as a strong motivation for us to continue conducting research that bridges modern science with Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage,” said Layla Witrah. She added that Sarabba holds immense potential to be developed into a premium functional beverage in the global market.
This victory demonstrates that Indonesian local wisdom can achieve international acclaim when coupled with rigorous scientific exploration. The achievement also reinforces Diponegoro University’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovative research, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening its global academic reputation.