KOTA KINABALU: A primary school from rural Ranau has been gaining international recognition by winning virtual competitions for their innovative face mask concept.

       SK Kirokot team represented by Areha Heavenea Azri, 11, and Jetty Lorrend, 12, has won three gold medals out of the seven innovation virtual contests since May 31 this year.

       They came out tops while representing the country under Malaysian Innovation, Invention and Creativity Association for the World Youth Invention and Innovation Award hosted by Indonesia (Aug 19), the Organisation for Creativity, Innovation and Invention Promotion competition hosted by Nigeria (Sept 3) and Virtual Innovation Competition hosted by Malaysia (Sept 20).

       They also won two bronze medals and two silver medals in the other competitions they participated.

       Teacher Hallsen Justin, who supervised the team, said they came up with the idea of recycling plastic bottles as the frame for the face mask to be used with fabric to reduce Covid-19 pandemic-related waste.

       “This is to replace disposable face masks.

       “This washable and reusable concept is also cost-effective in the long run,” Hallsen said.

       Ranau education officer Majus Munsing applauded the school for bringing glory to the district.

       “Both girls also did well in presenting their project in the English-language medium. We are proud that the new norm of education did not stop SK Kirokot to continue achieving success.

       “I hope this will inspire other schools, not only in Ranau, but the rest of the country,” Munsing said.