Melaka: The two-day South Zone National Science Week Carnival 2026, which commenced yesterday, aims to raise public awareness about nuclear technology. Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang emphasized the need to address negative perceptions associated with nuclear technology, often linked to weapons like nuclear bombs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the carnival, themed 'Nuclear For People', highlights the Nuclear Advocacy Programme as a crucial initiative to inform the public about nuclear technology through scientific facts. Minister Chang noted that nuclear technology has various applications in health, agriculture, and energy sectors, countering the common misconception that it solely pertains to weaponry. Speaking at the event held at Malaysia Melaka (UTeM), he announced plans for collaboration with the Education Ministry to incorporate nuclear technology education into primary and secondary school curriculums.
The carnival attracted over 6,000 students from more than 50 schools across the Southern Zone, including Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Johor. MOSTI, in a statement, confirmed that the event was organized in partnership with UTeM, the National Science Centre, the National Planetarium, and the Melaka state government. The ministry emphasized its ongoing commitment to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education through cooperative efforts with various agencies.
MOSTI highlighted the success of these initiatives, noting the Rehlah Sains programme's growth from 8,084 participants in 2024 to 14,671 in 2025, an increase of over 81 percent. The target for 2026 is set at 15,000 participants nationwide. As of June 2026, the Malaysian Nuclear Agency conducted 19 Nuclear Education Outreach programmes, engaging more than 15,000 participants, and expanded initiatives like the Nuclear Tour and Nuclear Friends Camp.
The ministry reiterated its dedication to fostering a science, technology, and innovation culture to cultivate a creative, technology-literate generation capable of advancing Malaysia towards a high-technology future, underscored by the ninth edition of National Science Week.