Student shines at scientific conference
THE Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM) recently held its 33rd Scientific Conference with the theme “Investing in Nutrition: Act Now”.
This theme was chosen in recognition of the severity and urgency of the situation in Malaysia with the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases, while also addressing undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies among specific segments of the population.
The conference was well organised with platforms for all stakeholders to share research and intervention activities, including several awards given to and sessions presented by faculty members and students from International Medical University (IMU).
Two final-year students from the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Nutrition programme, Ho Wan Hui and Tan Ying Chien, won consolation prizes in the poster competition.
Ho’s poster was entitled “Association between dietary intake, physical activity and macronutrient composition of breast milk among lactating women in Klang Valley”.
Meanwhile, Tan’s research title was ‘“Effect of cooking methods (conventional rice cooker and draining method) on amylose, amylopectin, resistant starch and total starch content of selected brown rice”.
Both expressed appreciation for the support shown by their supervisors in completing the research.
They felt very fortunate to see their hard work turn into something memorable in the conference.
Both students competed against 110 posters from over 10 different institutions within and outside the country.
“I would like to thank IMU’s Nutrition and Dietetics division for providing me with the opportunity to participate in this conference and competition. It was a treasured and memorable experience for me to win one of the Best Poster Awards,” said Ho.
“It was beyond my expectation as I was nervous when presenting my research poster. I went through hardships while conducting the project, but I appreciate the support and reassurance from my teammates and supervisors.
“I would also like to thank NSM for organising the NSM Conference, as it was an eye-opening opportunity for me.”
Meanwhile, Tan said: “Conducting research was always my greatest fear during my studies in IMU. Everything started from scratch, which required me to do a lot of reading, planning and critical thinking.
“However, my research would not have gone smoothly without the guidance of my supervisors and peers. Carrying out my research also helped me realise the crucial need for further learning and exploring of new information for advancement in nutritional knowledge.
“Attending the NSM conference also allowed me to understand the importance of upholding my passion and enthusiasm in becoming a competent nutritionist for the better future.”
The nutrition programme commences in July and September each year. Those with an interest in science, the ability to work in a team and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others can make an online application today.
Those who have just completed their SPM and do not have pre-university qualification may want to consider enrolling in the oneyear IMU Foundation in Science, the direct route for entry into any of the university’s degree programmes, including credit transfer options.