PENANG, 28 December 2024 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Educational Studies (PPIP) in collaboration with the Japan Malaysia Association (JMA) recently held a STREAM + BAKAU LAB Showcase programme at SK Haji Omar Tahir primary school in Pengkalan Bujang, in the state of Kedah.

Officiated by the Consul-General of Japan in Penang, Shinya Machida, the programme also saw the presence of notable personnel including the Deputy Director of Education for Kuala Muda District, Ismail Harun; Executive Director of the Japan Malaysia Association (JMA), Takuji Arai; and PPIP USM programme head, Associate Professor Dr. Rabiatul-Adawiah Ahmad Rashid.

30 students were selected from SK Haji Omar Tahir to participate in the programme.

The event, held on 15 December 2024, aimed to introduce and engage students to the fascinating world of science, particularly focusing on mangrove ecosystems, through an innovative and hands-on learning approach.

The students were provided with the experience of hands-on scientific skills, especially in the study of mangroves, through the STREAM + BAKAU LAB activities, which promotes learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STREAM).

At the same time, the students were also provided opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge through practical experiences, reinforcing learning in real-world contexts.

They were also encouraged to practice creative thinking skills which could foster innovation, and self-confidence among the students.

Finally, the programme was also positioned as a model for environmental education and STREAM integration, making it a reference point for schools across Malaysia.

The event had been planned as an important milestone in establishing the STREAM + BAKAU LAB programme as a leading model for environmental education and STREAM integration in Malaysia.

It is hoped that the success of this programme will inspire other schools across the country to adopt similar initiatives, making STREAM education more accessible and engaging for students from various backgrounds.

In conclusion, the STREAM + BAKAU LAB Showcase was a highly successful programme that fulfilled its mission to inspire and educate young minds, foster creativity, and promote environmental consciousness.

Through the interactive activities and thoughtful engagement from all parties involved, the event demonstrated the power of hands-on learning and collaboration between schools, universities, and international organisations.

The legacy of this event will likely extend far beyond this one day, as it lays the groundwork for future generations of environmentally-conscious scientists and thinkers.

Text: School of Educational Studies/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin & Tan Ewe Hoe