Tan Wai Hong, a final-year chemical engineering student, has earned international recognition by winning the Bronze Award at the prestigious International Innovation Competition (IIC) 2024, hosted by the International University of Malaya-Wales. Competing against a global pool of participants, Tan’s groundbreaking research, titled “Effect of Cations, Anions, and Organic Matters on Ammonia Removal Using Immobilized NanoFeCu,” impressed judges for its innovative approach to tackling environmental challenges.
Ammonia pollution poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems, with excessive levels impairing aquatic life and damaging ecosystems. Tan’s research offers a promising solution, utilising immobilized NanoFeCu—a composite of nano-scale iron and copper—as an advanced material for ammonia removal from water.
This novel approach enhances the stability and reusability of NanoFeCu, providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical treatments. By focusing on the interaction of cations, anions, and organic matter with NanoFeCu, the study addresses key factors influencing ammonia removal efficiency, making it a practical solution for real-world applications.
Winning the Bronze Award at IIC 2024 reflects Tan’s dedication and innovative thinking in the field of environmental sustainability. The competition serves as a respected platform for showcasing groundbreaking research, and Tan’s achievement stands out as a remarkable milestone in his academic journey.
Reflecting on his accomplishment, Tan shared, “Joining IIC 2024 was my final activity before leaving SEGi, and I am deeply honored to have represented SEGi Chemical Engineering one last time to win such a prestigious award. I would like to especially thank Dr. Chan for her invaluable guidance and support throughout this journey.”
Tan’s research was supervised by Ir. Associate Professor Dr. Chan Mieow Kee, whose mentorship was instrumental in shaping the project and its success. The award-winning research not only highlights the importance of sustainable solutions in environmental engineering but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of students.
Tan’s work demonstrates the critical role of innovative engineering in addressing global environmental challenges. His research holds potential for both academic advancements and practical implementation in the environmental sector, paving the way for sustainable solutions to reduce water pollution.
This achievement also serves as a motivational example for students in science and engineering, showcasing how creativity, dedication, and perseverance can lead to impactful contributions on a global stage.
This research aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including:
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – Promoting innovative methods to improve water quality by addressing pollutants like ammonia.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Developing sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional chemical treatments.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Encouraging environmentally friendly practices to mitigate pollution and its impacts.
Tan Wai Hong’s success not only reflects his personal dedication but also highlights the potential of young innovators to drive meaningful change for a sustainable future.