The 16th National Dental Student Scientific Conference (NDSSC) 2024, held on June 29th at Zecon Hotel, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, was a grand event that shone its light on dental excellence, innovation, and determination by dental students all around Malaysia. This year’s NDSSC celebrated dental excellence and was hosted by the Faculty of Dentistry, UKM. It was a good mix of hard-core research sharing and colorful student enrichment programs that emphasized the importance of dental excellence.
The NDSSC is held annually as part of the national-level event, and every dental faculty in Malaysia takes turns organizing it. The conference marked the 16th installment this year; it was the second time it has been hosted by the Faculty of Dentistry, UKM (FGG UKM), with the first year being in 2011. This conference marks and hosts undergraduate research activities and creative students’ enrichment competitions celebrating the country’s commitment to dental excellence. Among the student enrichment activities this year were “Restorun,” “Anatomy Face Paint,” and “Bicara Ilmu,” all designed to promote dental excellence among participants.
A Spectacular Dental Excellence Program
More than 400 participants from 13 dental schools in Malaysia embraced this symposium, comprising dental undergraduates from universities nationwide. Attracting deans and honorary guests, speakers and judges, this conference managed to capture the minds and hearts of the best.
Many activities took place during NDSSC 2024, such as a pre-conference workshop. The pre-conference workshop was conducted on June 28th, 2024, focusing on Mobile Photography for dental students and facilitated by Dr. Mohd Fakhruddin Zul. Seventeen participants learned to operate their smartphone cameras and the capturing of professional images, which are important in clinical learning.
Dinner
The Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, together with the management team members, took the initiative to organise a welcoming dinner. The deans of the Dental Faculties attended the dinner, which was held at Samudra Anjung Patin Ville, well known for its special and traditional Malay food and ambience.
Opening and Closing Ceremonies
The opening ceremony went smoothly, assisted by UKM’s Corporate Communication Centre (PKK). Prof. Dr. Abdul Halim Abdul Gafor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and International Affairs UKM, officiated NDSSC 2024. The closing ceremony was modest, with the list of winners announced and prizes awarded to each winner.
Keynote and Plenary Lectures
The keynote lecture was delivered by Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah, Chairman of the National Heart Institute and the former Director of Health Malaysia, who shared his experiences managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr Khayriyyah Mohd Hanafiah, co-founder of the Malaysia Science Communication Network, delivered the plenary lecture and discussed effective science communication strategies.
Conference participants also had the opportunity to listen to two lectures from the platinum sponsors, Haleon and Maikuro Technologies.
Research Presentation Programme
The students from 13 dental faculties around the country participated in oral and poster presentations, 3-minute pitching and a students’ enrichment programme. They were evaluated by respected judges from universities, the Ministry of Health and industry partners.
| Activity | Description | Winners |
| Oral Presentation | All 13 Dental Faculties across the country sent representatives for this event. The event started with a 5-minute presentation using PowerPoint slides, followed by a 5-minute Q&A session. The list of judges is as follows: • Prof. Dr. Roszalina Ramli, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia • Prof. Dr. V Rathna Devi A/P A Vaithilingam, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khairul Osman, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia | First Place: UM Second Place: USIM Third Place: UiTM Best Presenter: UM |
| Poster Presentation | All 13 Dental Faculties across the country sent representatives for this event. The event started with a 5-minute presentation using a single static slide (digital poster), followed by a 5-minute Q&A session. The list of judges is as follows: • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Safura Anita Baharin, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia • Prof. Dr. Nur Azlina Mohd Fahami, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia • Prof. Dr. Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera Mohd Yusof, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi Mara | First Place: UIAM Second Place: UKM Third Place: USM Best Presenter: UIAM |
| 3- Minutes Pitching | A total of 10 Dental Faculties across the country sent representatives for this event. The event started with a 3-minute presentation using minimal props without slides, followed by a 5-minute Q&A session. The list of judges is as follows: • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Badiah Baharin, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia • Prof. Dr. Mohd Fauzi Mh Busra, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia • Mr Wan Abdul Matiin Wan Abdul Rahim Kamil, Malaysia Science Communication Network | First Place: UKM Second Place: USIM Third Place: LUC Best Presenter: LUC |
| Activity | Description | Winners |
| Oral Health Promotion | A total of eight entries were received, with each participant (group) required to create a video and poster to promote oral health on social media (Instagram) for two weeks before the conference date. The competition judges were: • Dr. Audrey Gan Mei Xin, Alliance for Cavity Free Future Malaysia • Dr. Azliza Dato’ Zabha, London School of Economics and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine | First Place: UKM Second Place: UiTM Third Place: LUC |
| RestoRun | A total of 10 entries from Dental Faculties across the country were received. Participants travelled around Kuala Lumpur using public transport and completed several challenges to obtain filling materials before gathering at the UKM Faculty of Dentistry to perform fillings on frasaco teeth. The competition judges were: • Dr. Nurul Huda Hasan, Academic Coordinator, The Dental Academy • Dr. Roshima Mohd Sharif, Head of Restorative Dentistry, Ministry of Health Malaysia | First Place: UIAM Second Place: UM Third Place: USM |
| Bicara Ilmu | A total of 13 participants from 9 Dental Faculties participated in this event. Participants presented scientific views on dental topics in the national language. The judges were: • Dr. Mustaffa Jaapar, Ministry of Health Malaysia • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Suhaimi Muhammad, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia | First Place: USM Second Place: USM Third Place: UiTM |
| Anatomy Face Painting | 10 teams from 10 dental faculties participated in this competition. Participants painted facial anatomy, and the competition was judged by: • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elvy Suhana Mohd Ramli, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia • Prof. Dr Murali A/L D Kuppusamy Naidu, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya | First Place: USIM Second Place: IMU Third Place: PIDC |
Enriching Student Competitions
Apart from research excellence, the three new features introduced this year were student competitions: the Anatomy Face Painting Competition, the Bicara Ilmu Competition, and the Restorun Competition. Through each of these competitions, students had the opportunity to show off their talent and share their knowledge in new, creative ways.
Anatomy Face Painting Competition
This is one of the most interesting blends of art and science! Students were challenged to create the most intricate face paintings inspired by the anatomical elements and physiological features of the head and neck region. The anatomical facts had to be flawlessly incorporated into the designs, requiring not only artistic talent but also deep anatomical knowledge.
Students demonstrated high levels of creativity and accuracy by transferring their models into real, living canvases demonstrating minute details of the anatomy of the human head and neck. This contest was all about human anatomy, and what students created in such an interactive and visually appealing form will never be forgotten. The judges were really impressed by the illustrative and detailed designs that kept them glued at first sight. This also highlighted the equally important aspect of preclinical science in the practice of dentistry.
Bicara Ilmu Competition
This was another contest of brains at NDSSC 2024, where super interesting speeches on dentistry topics were being delivered in the Malay language. Students selected topics varying from cutting-edge dental research to public health initiatives, all of which were interesting and captured the attention of the audience. The delivery was clear and articulate, with a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the subjects reviewed in the speeches. The question-and-answer sessions were vibrant and educative, enabling the contestants to show their prowess and interact more personally with the audience and fellow participants.
“Restorun”
Mastering dentistry craftsmanship and exploring Kuala Lumpur
The Restorun Competition extraordinarily blends excitement, education, and camaraderie. What is Restorun? Restorun was an innovative and adventurous competition that combined city-wide exploration with a series of dental challenges. Designed for teams of dental students, the competition tested their knowledge, skills, and teamwork as they navigated through the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur.
Each university entered a team of five students, all eager to prove their tenacity in this unique event. The competition displayed team dynamics and strategy. The competition required a blend of quick thinking and collaborative effort, and the teams delivered! Exploration through various iconic locations, this 4-hour race took teams to four prominent locations in Kuala Lumpur, each presenting its own set of challenges. From historical sites to modern landmarks, the diversity of locations added an element of surprise and excitement to the competition. At each stop, teams faced a variety of tasks, from dental trivia and practical exercises to creative problem-solving scenarios. These tasks were designed to test not only their dental knowledge but also their ability to work effectively under pressure.
Station 1: Dataran Merdeka
The first station is located at the historic Dataran Merdeka. Here, teams participated in the “Tooth Toss Challenge: Grin, Fling, and Score Trivia.” Teams took turns aiming and throwing balls at colourful target boxes. Each successful hit revealed five intriguing dental trivia questions. Teams needed to answer at least 8 questions correctly to redeem an additional item for their restoration task. Completing this station earned the team a CR Coupon, which was vital for the final restoration task.
Station 2: Muzium Negara
The second station at Muzium Negara brought a fun and interactive element to the competition with a dental-themed charades game. Participants compete using only facial expressions and body movements to act out dental items or actions. Teammates guessed the actions as quickly as possible to earn points. Teams that excelled in this station received a Cellulose Strip, which was crucial for the dental restoration process.
Station 3: Faculty of Dentistry, UKM
At the Faculty of Dentistry, teams faced the “Crack the Code – Dental Detective” challenge, which tested their problem-solving skills. Participants answered the questions and filled in the crossword puzzle with correct answers to reveal a secret code. The correct code was presented to the checkpoint master to receive dental materials and tools. Completing this station provided the team with a Polishing Strip, an essential tool for their final task.
Station 4: Pasar Seni
The final station at Pasar Seni focused on community engagement and oral health education. Participants must find two strangers from the crowd and provide Oral Health Education. They could teach them about brushing, flossing, and other dental care tips. Participants then captured a video of the interaction, posted it on Instagram, and tagged NDSSC2024 and UKMDENSTA. The social media posts earned them a special coupon to complete the task. Completing this task earned the team a Soflex Disc, finishing their set of tools needed for the final dental restoration challenge.
The Final Restoration Task
The exploration race culminated in a 1-hour dental restoration competition. Using materials gathered during their journey, teams had to demonstrate their clinical skills and theoretical knowledge in a high-stakes setting. A celebration of talent and teamwork Restorun was more than just a competition. It was a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and skill of dental students from across Malaysia. The participants showcased exceptional teamwork, innovative thinking, and resilience throughout the event, making it a true testament to their potential as future dental professionals. The race was filled with moments of laughter, intense focus, and teamwork. Participants supported each other, shared knowledge, and learned in a dynamic and engaging environment. From navigating through the lively streets of Kuala Lumpur to tackling complex dental tasks, every moment was packed with excitement and learning. The student’s ability to adapt and excel under pressure was truly impressive. Beyond the competition, Restorun fostered friendships and professional connections that will last a lifetime. Students from different universities bonded over shared experiences, creating a strong network of future dental professionals.
Restorun seamlessly blended adventure with academic rigour, creating an unforgettable experience for all involved. As we look back on the achievements of NDSSC 2024, we are excited for what future editions will bring, with even more innovative and thrilling challenges on the horizon.
Conclusion
The student competition at NDSSC 2024 was a success, showcasing talented, knowledgeable, and creative dental students from across Malaysia. These events have only reinforced the importance of melding high academic standards with hands-on capabilities and creativity in dentistry.
We encourage all dental students to participate in future events, to keep breaking boundaries of their knowledge and skills, and to embrace the spirit of teamwork and excellence that this kind of competition embodies. Let’s continue to inspire minds and ignite potential together!
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Acknowledgement
We want to thank our participants, judges, sponsors and invited guests for their hard work in making this event a great one. A special thank you to our generous platinum sponsors, Haleon and Maikuro Technologies.
Here’s to more adventures, more learning, and more opportunities to shine!
“Inspiring Minds, Igniting Potentials”
Assoc Prof Dr Haslina Rani
Chairman, NDSSC 2024
Dr Atika Ashar
Advisor, NDSSC 2024
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