PORT KLANG, SELANGOR, 2 August 2024 – One of the most advanced and versatile 77-meter research vessel (RV) from Xiamen University, the ‘Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel’ held its opening ceremony at Port Klang Cruise Terminal today.

Dubbed as “clean, quiet, multidisciplinary and green”, the 3,600-tonne oceanographic research vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art scientific instruments for extensive marine science exploration.

It is capable of conducting real-time observations and experiments across a range of scientific disciplines, including hydrology, chemistry, biology, and geology.

This vessel serves as a “Marine Campus” of Xiamen University and is noted for being the first Chinese research vessel to dock in Malaysia.

It has carried out 51 scientific cruises to different parts of the vast ocean since it was officially put into service in 2017.

As part of “Xiamen University at Sea” training programme, which promotes marine science education for its students and partner institutions, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is privileged to have two of its students, Gaautham A/L Manimaren and Nur Sabrina Normahisham being selected to participate in this prestigious on-board training in the research vessel.

Representing the USM Vice-Chancellor at the event was the Director of USM Centre for Marine and Coastal Research (CEMACS), Professor Dato’ Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai.

Aileen said, “This hands-on experience is a unique chance for both students from the School of Biological Sciences (majoring Aquatic and Environmental Biology), to engage in valuable experiential learning in marine science. This is surely a once in a lifetime experience for them to be exposed to ‘close encounter’ on board the Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel.”

“The initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Xiamen University in China and its Malaysia campus in 2024.”

According to Aileen, “CEMACS is very thankful and grateful for the opportunity provided by Xiamen University, whose officials have visited CEMACS multiple times and are exploring further opportunities for collaboration.”

“This collaboration signifies the beginning of a promising partnership aimed at enhancing education and research in marine science,” she added.

Earlier, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation Malaysia (MOSTI), YB Chang Lih Kang graced the opening ceremony.

In his opening speech, Chang emphasised that “The Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel is a bridge connecting scientists from Malaysia and China, reflecting significant advancements in scientific research.”

“This vessel facilitates collaborative research and advances in marine science and technology between both countries,” he said.

This event coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China and commemorates the 150th anniversary of the birth of Tan Kah Kee, Xiamen University's founder.

Apart from raising public awareness on marine conservation, the open day also aims to facilitate cooperation in marine science research and academic exchanges between research institutions in Malaysia and China.

The open day serves as a valuable platform for visitors to explore the research vessel and participate in a series of exciting exhibitions that promote the functions of the ocean and its ecosystems.

The event was highly praised by the attendees, estimated to be over 1,000 visitors.

The event was also attended by the Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing; Deputy Director of Council of Xiamen University, Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences as well as a Professor of Biogeochemistry at Xiamen University and USM’s main collaborator, Professor Dr. Dai Minhan; Universiti Malaya (UM) academic at the Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences (IOES), Professor Dr. Lim Phaik Eem; and guests from various industries and NGOs.

Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa