Medan – FKM USU: Dr. Eka Lestari Mahyuni, a lecturer at FKM USU, has been named among the top 10 candidates in the Health Technology Innovator category of the 2026 Regional Representative Council of the Republic of Indonesia (DPD RI) Awards. Representing North Sumatra, Dr. Eka earned this recognition through the development of various innovations using the acem-acem plant. The top 10 candidates were selected through an administrative screening process, followed by a further selection from the top 50. Dr. Eka’s innovations include a handwashing gel and a skincare cream formulated with acem-acem extract. The handwashing gel draws on the plant’s saponin content and its potential antimicrobial and antifungal properties, while the anti-aging cream utilizes its antioxidant content for skincare. In addition to hygiene and skincare products, Dr. Eka has developed a biopesticide using acem-acem extract for agricultural applications. This innovation explores the plant’s potential as a natural insect repellent and insecticide, with one of the trials targeting fruit flies. Through these innovations, a plant previously regarded as a weed has been transformed into a useful resource for communities, including farmers. Dr. Eka’s participation in the awards highlights the contribution of FKM USU lecturers to research based on local biological resources. This research aligns with the spirit of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through innovations with the potential to support hygiene and public health, and SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the advancement of scientific knowledge that can serve as a resource for research-based learning. Furthermore, transforming a plant previously considered a weed into a valuable resource relates to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), particularly by encouraging the responsible and sustainable use of local biological resources.