UMS Student Innovation from Mangosteen Peel Wins Gold at AISEEF 2026

Team Dehan from Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) won a gold medal at the ASEAN Innovative Science Environmental and Entrepreneur Fair (AISEEF), held from 9–12 February 2026.

Team Dehan was supervised by a lecturer from the UMS Pharmacy Program, Suprapto, S.Si., Apt., M.Sc., The team, led by Dani Hendrawan, includes Hanifa Aulia Khoirunnisa, Bella Fitria Anggraini, Muhammad Elzam Dwi Fahrudin, Srigita Hayyu Ghaitsa, and Atha Salwa Imtiyaz.

Team Dehan presented a project titled "Formulation and Evaluation of Mangosteen Peel Extract Capsules as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent With Variations in Amprotab Concentration as a Disintegrant." Through this work, Dani explained that the team aimed to explore the use of mangosteen peel as a herbal anti-inflammatory medicine.

"This research stemmed from concerns over the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which pose risks to the digestive tract. We offer an evidence-based herbal approach by utilizing mangosteen peel, which is rich in Xanthone compounds, as a natural anti-inflammatory agent," Dani explained when interviewed on Tuesday (24/2/2026).

Their innovation did not stop at selecting the raw material. Pharmaceutical engineering was applied to formulate the mangosteen peel extract into capsule form. The team then tested the capsules' ability to disintegrate quickly when ingested, to ensure the active substance works promptly and optimally.

For Dani, the most memorable moment during the competition came after the presentation session. Team Dehan's innovation attracted the attention of an international sensory expert from Institut Pertanian Bogor, Dr. Ing. Dase Hunaefi, S.T.P., M.Food.St.

"As a form of appreciation and a collaboration opportunity, he personally handed his business card to the team and opened the possibility for Dehan's product to be developed toward professional sensory testing," he recalled.

This demonstrates that UMS students' research carries strong academic value and real potential for their innovations to be developed into industrial applications, delivering broader societal impact.

"This proves that UMS students are capable of standing alongside global innovators, while bringing Indonesia's biodiversity to the international stage through measurable and impactful science," Dani stated.

As the supervising lecturer, Suprapto also expressed appreciation for the team's success in presenting a tangible solution. According to him, the solution is expected to address challenges in today's era of globalization, entrepreneurship, and reputable research.

"Congratulations to the team. This golden achievement is the foundation for future health innovations. This research is expected to be the first step toward the commercialization of Indonesian herbal products at the industrial level," he concluded.

Writer: Roselia

Editor: Fika Annisa’ Sholihah

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid