Monash student best presenter at intervarsity seminar

Monash University student Low Ley Hian showing the trophy he received for being the best oral presenter at the 18th 18th Intervarsity Biochemistry Seminar.

Ley Hian, take up the challenge! These were the simple words from a lecturer that spurred Monash University student Low Ley Hian to participate in the recent 18th Intervarsity Biochemistry Seminar, where he clinched the Best Oral Presenter award.

The event, organised by Universiti Malaya, provides a platform for biochemistry students from higher education institutions to share their research experiences.

Monash sent two representatives – Ley Hian and a fellow honours student Mak Tim Nam - to join others from five other higher education institutions.

Other institutions that participated this year included Universiti Malaya, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and University College Sedaya International.

Ley Hian said the words of support from his lecturer, Dr Ton So Ha, and fellow students, encouraged him to participate in the competition.

He said the event also presented a good opportunity for him to speak on the research he is contributing to at Monash University.

Ley Hian, a biotechnology honours student, is part of a team studying the anti-diabetic effects of a compound found in licorice.

The research project began two years ago and a pilot study is being carried out on rats.

"I really enjoyed the event because it provided a platform for us students to showcase our research and an opportunity for us to ask each other about the research that we're carrying out.

My primary aim was to disseminate information on my research, talk about the significance of my research.

"I tried to present the research concepts in a natural manner and showcase the impact the research could potentially have on people with diabetes.

"If this is successful, it could be offered as a potential alternative for the treatment of diabetes."

Ley Hian, from Petaling Jaya, said his long term goal was to become a researcher.