ALOR SETAR: The National Science Centre (NSC), which reopened to the public on Oct 1, now boasts a range of new facilities and educational modules, offering visitors a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
Its director Mohammad Fuad Rahman said the centre had been closed from March to September for renovations, including upgrades to the exhibition gallery.
"Among the main innovations is the introduction of a completely cashless entry system. Visitors are now required to purchase tickets online or through kiosks in the lobby, which helps reduce congestion at the entrance," he said during the launch of the 2025 North Zone National Science Week (MSN) Carnival here on Saturday (Oct 25).
He also highlighted the launch of the Obskura XR Gallery, an exhibition featuring artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), which offers visitors a fully immersive, kinesthetic experience.
In addition to these innovations, the NSC has introduced a new educational module that adopts an experiential science approach, designed to engage various age groups, from preschoolers to adults.
Since reopening, the NSC has seen a strong turnout, with weekend visitor numbers reaching up to 10,000.
"The NSC regularly organises educational programmes and science-related activities aimed at boosting public interest in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI)," Mohammad Fuad added.
He also noted that the 2025 North Zone Carnival, which runs until Monday, is part of ongoing efforts to foster a science culture nationwide.
The event has already been held in Sarawak, Terengganu, Sabah, and Johor, with Kedah hosting the event this year. The carnival will culminate in Kuala Lumpur from Nov 8-11.
"The closing ceremony of National Science Week is expected to be officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof on Nov 11," he said.
The NSC is aiming for a physical turnout of 75,000 throughout the Science Week (MSN) series, with over 60,000 attendees already recorded. Approximately 30,000 participants are expected at the culminating carnival.
"We are proud of these achievements, as they reflect the growing science culture in the country," Mohammad Fuad said.
To measure the impact of these initiatives, NSC, in collaboration with the Malaysian Science and Technology Information Centre (MASTIC), conducted a study to assess the effectiveness of the science culture programme in increasing public interest in STI. - Bernama
