Nuclear science encyclopaedia in BM

THE Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuclear Malaysia) is working with Dewan Bahasa & Pustaka (DBP) to publish an encyclopaedia on nuclear science and technology in Bahasa Malaysia.

Nuclear Malaysia’s senior director for commercialisation and technology planning programme Datuk Dr Zulkifli Mohamed Hashim said 95% of the work on the encyclopaedia has been completed.

“The encyclopaedia is expected to be ready by the end of this year. A series of workshops and discussions were organised in producing this encyclopaedia which has the strong backing of the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry,” he told the media after opening the Scientific Writing and Publishing Seminar in Ipoh on Wednesday.

The three-day seminar aims to upgrade the professionalism of scientific publications as well as promote the use of Bahasa Malaysia in such publications.

The seminar is organised by Nuclear Malaysia, DBP, the Malaysian Radiation Protection Association, and the Karangkraf Media Group with the support of the Malaysian Institute of Translation and Books, the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi), PTS Publications and Distributors Sdn Bhd, as well as several local universities.

“The ministry also provided funding for us to complete the task,” said Zulkifli, adding that 99 Nuclear Malaysia research officers were involved in producing the 250-page encyclopaedia.

Meanwhile, Nuclear Malaysia director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Lebai Juri said more emphasis should be given to science in line with the nation's aim of producing a scientifically literate society so it can achieve developed nation status by 2020.

Muhammad, who was not present, had his speech read out by Zulkifli.

In his speech, Muhammad said those involved in research should disseminate information about their work through their writings.

“Although interest in reading scientific materials among the public is still considered low, it has not discouraged writers in continuing to produce interesting books to enhance knowledge,” he added. – Bernama.