PENANG, 25 April 2026 – Forty Form Three students from SMK Dato’ Haji Hassan Noh, Penaga took part in the 'SuSpectroCiety: STEM Empowerment through Spectroscopy for a Sustainable Society' programme, held on 25 April 2026 at the school.

The initiative was jointly organised by The Malaysian Analytical Sciences Society (ANALIS) and the School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), with the aim of enhancing students’ engagement in STEM through experiential learning in analytical science.

The programme was developed in response to the declining interest in STEM subjects, particularly among students in rural schools. It introduced participants to spectroscopy-based learning through three interactive modules: constructing light spectra using a DIY spectroscope, determining dye concentration in commercial beverages using a visible spectrophotometer, and exploring fluorescence properties in selected food and plant samples.

Rather than focusing on rote theoretical understanding, the activities encouraged students to observe, analyse, and relate scientific principles to real-world phenomena. Participants were challenged to think critically, solve experimental problems and appreciate how analytical science contributes to addressing sustainability related issues. The learning experience was further aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), emphasising the relevance of science in promoting sustainable development.

Programme coordinator, Dr. Norazzizi Nordin, highlighted that the SuSpectroCiety programme was designed to bridge classroom learning with authentic scientific experiences. “We want students to realise that science is not confined to textbooks alone, it is something that they can see, apply and experience in their daily lives,” he said.

The programme also involved 10 undergraduate students and five postgraduate students from the USM School of Chemical Sciences, who served as facilitators throughout the sessions. They guided experimental work, assisted in data interpretation and shared insights into spectroscopy and analytical techniques. This engagement provided valuable exposure for university students in communication, leadership and science outreach.

SMK Dato’ Haji Hassan Noh Principal, Mr. Zaidi Hamzah, welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation for its positive impact on student motivation and STEM awareness. He noted that such programmes are crucial in broadening students’ understanding of academic pathways and future careers in science and technology.

In addition to the hands-on activities, students were introduced to The Malaysian Analytical Sciences Society (ANALIS) and its role in advancing analytical sciences in Malaysia. The session highlighted the application of analytical science across various fields, including healthcare, environmental monitoring, food safety and industrial analysis.

Overall, the programme is expected to foster greater enthusiasm for STEM education, while nurturing analytical thinking, scientific curiosity and awareness on sustainability among the next generation of learners.

Text & Photo: Dr. Norazzizi Nordin, School of Chemical Sciences, USM / Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin, Media & Public Relations Centre (MPRC), USM