PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) continues to expand its efforts to enhance public understanding of nuclear technology through the Nuclear Advocacy Programme, which carries the message 'Nuclear for the People', with an emphasis on delivering facts and knowledge.
Datuk Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, said that public understanding of nuclear technology needs to be further strengthened to ensure that the technology is evaluated based on its benefits and scientific applications, and not just associated with weapons or destruction.
"When nuclear is mentioned, many immediately think of risks and destruction. Whereas nuclear technology has various benefits and is used in many fields, including health, agriculture, industry, energy, and the environment.
"That is why we want society, especially the younger generation, to understand nuclear technology based on facts and knowledge so that any misconceptions can be corrected," he said after attending the ministry's monthly assembly with the staff.
To expand exposure to nuclear technology, MOSTI intends to introduce advocacy efforts at the primary school level through collaboration with the Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM). Exposure from a young age is important to form an accurate understanding and cultivate interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
At the event, Chang also officiated the kick-off of Nuclear Advocacy to Bioeconomy Corporation as a strategic partner, while the Malaysian Nuclear Agency, Atomic Energy Department, and National Science Centre acted as implementing partners.
The advocacy kit contains easy, visual, and interactive learning materials, including the Nuclear World Adventure book, molecular model kits, a three-dimensional reactor core model, interactive fact cards, the Nuclear Buddy Search, and nuclear technology application posters.
This program also features various interactive activities such as the Nuclear Exploration Mission (Escape Room), Nuclear Smart City (Board Game), Cloud Chamber demonstration, and virtual reality (VR) experience.
To date, the Nuclear Advocacy Programme has been implemented in 12 locations across the country, including MSN Zones in Penang, Terengganu, and Sarawak; MRSM Kuala Krai; the MADANI Education Carnival at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency; the Malaysia Techlympics outreach program in Lahad Datu; and the MSN Tour in Maradong, Bintulu, and Belaga, Sarawak.
The implementation of this program is in line with the National Nuclear Technology Policy (NNTP) 2030, which supports the development and use of nuclear technology in a safe, secure, and responsible manner for the welfare of the people and the progress of the nation.
In conjunction with the organisation of the programme, MOSTI staff also had the opportunity to visit the Nuclear Advocacy Program booth set up in the MOSTI Lobby, themed "Know Nuclear & Understand Its Benefits!" as an exposure for ministry staff regarding nuclear technology and its benefits and applications.
The MOSTI monthly assembly was also enlivened by the waving of the Jalur Gemilang and the participation of staff in wearing the best attire themed for the national month, in line with the spirit of celebrating National Day and Malaysia Day.
