K2M opens rural children’s eyes to wonders of science
MARUDI: A ‘Chemistry Carnival’, conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry (IKM) Sarawak here recently, signified the mission to instil in school-children the interest in science.
In this regard, Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing Datu Dr Penguang Manggil also praised IKM Sarawak for the move to hold such an event in a rural area like Marudi.
It is understood that the ‘Karnival Kimia Malaysia (K2M) 2019’ also took place in Kuching and Betong.
The event here was attended by some 250 selected students from secondary school across Baram – comprising the host SMK Marudi, as well as SMK Tutoh Apoh, SMK Bakong, SMK Tinjar, SMK Telang Usan and SMK Long Lama.
Penguang, who is Marudi assemblyman, said he was informed that the selected Form 1 to Form 3 students were those who excelled in their recent examinations.
“I understand that these students are viewed as being qualified for the IKM scholarships,” he said prior to launching the K2M 2019 here.
Moreover, Penguang advised the participating students that they should never expect everything to come easy for them.
“You must have your own vision – think further and be committed to your studies.
“It is to hear about students not wanting to enter the Science Stream, due to the perception that this field is very difficult. There are even some cases where parents do not encourage their children to enter Science Stream.
“It is hoped that this ‘chemistry carnival’ would help change such perception.”
Adding on, Penguang said the K2M – an outreach programme run by IKM Sarawak – stood as one of many initiatives to introduce the underlying concepts and principles of chemistry in a fun, interactive and exciting way.
He was encouraged by the carnival’s line-up of activities such as talks on ‘Health, Environmental and Household Chemistry’, as well as the ‘Oohaa Chemistry’ sessions where students got to conduct various chemistry experiments.
Meanwhile, Penguang had assured SMK Marudi principal Maria Jau that he would look into the school’s request for repair works on its toilets and the hostel block.
IKM Sarawak chairman Dr John Chan, Education Department Sarawak assistant director (science) Stanly Lau and Subis Education Officer Seripah Azizah Wan Hussien were also present at the launch.
You must have your own vision – think further and be committed to your studies. It is to hear about students not wanting to enter the Science Stream, due to the perception that this field is very difficult. There are even some cases where parents do not encourage their children to enter Science Stream.
Datu Dr Penguang Manggil