Karnival Kimia Malaysia Johor 2024: Inspiring Young Minds through Chemistry
Johor Bahru, October 26, 2024 – The Karnival Kimia Malaysia (K2M) Johor 2024, an annual chemistry carnival, successfully gathered over 500 high school students and 50 teachers from across Johor to Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) for a day filled with hands-on science activities, inspiring talks, and interactive exhibitions. The event, organized by the Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM) Southern Branch in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, UTM, Jabatan Kimia Malaysia Johor, and the Johor State Education Department (JPNJ), has been a significant outreach program aimed at cultivating students’ interest in chemistry since its inception in 2012.
Engaging Activities to Spark Scientific Curiosity
Held at UTM’s Block T02, the carnival featured a full day of activities designed to introduce students to the fascinating world of chemistry. The event started with ‘Meet the Scientist’ sessions at 9:00 a.m., where students had the opportunity to engage with experts and learn about the diverse career paths in chemistry. Throughout the day, students and teachers enjoyed various demonstrations, including interactive chemistry experiments, laboratory tours, a glass-blowing demonstration, and a STEM exhibition.
Competitions were held to foster a spirit of friendly rivalry among students, encouraging them to apply their knowledge in creative ways. Some of the popular events included:
- Crime Scene Investigation, where students solved cases using chemistry techniques.
- Periodic Table Game and STEM Amazing Race, which blended learning with teamwork and fun.
- Water Theme Lab, which explored chemistry in the context of water, a crucial resource.
- 3-Minute Chemistry and Chemistry Demo sessions, challenging students to present complex concepts in an accessible manner.
Objectives of K2M Johor 2024
K2M Johor 2024 aimed to instill a passion for chemistry in students through interactive and engaging methods, encouraging them to consider careers in the field. The program’s broader objectives included:
- Promoting chemistry as a viable and rewarding career path.
- Introducing students to real-world applications of chemistry in everyday life.
- Creating a scientific culture and awareness of the importance of chemistry within the community.
Collaborative Efforts and Financial Support
The carnival’s total budget of RM 15,000 was fully sponsored by the Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM), ensuring the event’s smooth execution without financial burdens on the participating schools. Funds were allocated for interactive chemistry materials, competition prizes, food, souvenirs, and logistical support. The event was organized by a dedicated committee comprising faculty members and volunteers from UTM and IKM, led by Program Director ChM. Ts. Dr. Mohamad Shazwan Shah Jamil, with Assoc. Prof. ChM. Dr. Joazaizulfazli Jamalis as the advisor.
Encouraging Words from Notable Speakers
During the closing ceremony, Prof. Ts. Dr. Ali Selamat, UTM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Student Affairs and Alumni, expressed his support for initiatives like K2M, emphasizing UTM’s commitment to nurturing scientific talent. He highlighted the importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in advancing society and reiterated UTM’s goal of ‘Innovating Solutions’ to address industry needs through R&D. He urged students to consider careers in science to ensure Malaysia’s future as a technologically advanced nation.
ChM. Rachel Yap, Chairperson of IKM Southern Branch, also shared her pride in the sustained collaboration between UTM and IKM, noting that K2M has been a valuable platform for introducing students to chemistry. She encouraged students to view chemistry as a discipline filled with opportunities, where scientific inquiry can address unanswered questions and fuel innovation.
A Platform for Future Chemists
The Karnival Kimia Malaysia Johor 2024 successfully achieved its goal of sparking interest in chemistry among young participants. The carnival not only provided a unique learning experience but also inspired students to think critically and explore the vast potential within the field of chemistry. Moving forward, the organizers hope to expand the carnival, making it an even more inclusive and impactful event for students and educators across Johor.
As the event concluded with an award ceremony for competition winners, both students and teachers left with a renewed appreciation for chemistry, equipped with knowledge and inspiration to continue their scientific journeys. The organizers hope that K2M Johor will continue to grow, fostering a love for chemistry and contributing to Malaysia’s development in the scientific domain.
For more information on K2M and upcoming events, please contact the Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM) Southern Branch or the Faculty of Science, UTM.
Karnival Kimia Malaysia Johor 2024 pupuk minat pelajar sekolah terhadap STEM
JOHOR BAHRU, 27 Okt – Karnival Kimia Malaysia (K2M) Johor 2024 telah berlangsung dengan jayanya di Blok T02, Fakulti Sains, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Johor Bahru pada Sabtu, 26 Oktober 2024. Acara tahunan ini dianjurkan oleh Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM) dan Jabatan Kimia, Fakulti Sains UTM dengan objektif untuk meningkatkan kesedaran mengenai kepentingan kimia dalam kehidupan seharian dan menggalakkan minat dalam bidang sains dalam kalangan pelajar sekolah menengah.
