PETALING JAYA: While most seven-year-olds are mastering toys, Laxmittha Partiven is busy tearing through 16 science experiments in under a minute.
For her extraordinary feat, the SJKT Kampong Pandan pupil earned an entry into the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) for the most science experiments conducted by a child in one minute, on March 7.
With just simple, low‑cost materials, Laxmittha completed the experiments involving the Years 1 to 6 science syllabus in just 53 seconds.
“I practised 96 times for the experiment. My favourite experiment was about the colour spread and the mini volcano, as I could see the different colours coming through. The challenging ones were the soap and germs experiment,” she added in an interview.
Another experiment she did was on gravity.
“I used a toy egg and piece of paper. If I dropped them, the egg would fall first as it is heavier,” she said excitedly.
Providing support were parents Jeevitha Muniyandy, 35, and Partiven Muniandy, 38, both teachers.
Jeevitha, a Science teacher, said she sent details on the achievement to MBOR as she wanted to honour Laxmittha for her efforts.
“As a teacher, I encourage and motivate my students to participate in competitions even up to the national level.
“So I thought of doing something for Laxmittha since she too loves Science. The experiments were taken from textbooks and some simple do-it-yourself projects which I researched online. It included topics such as colour spread, reflection, refraction, shadow, gravity, air pressure and water absorption,” she added.
In the mini volcano experiment where soap, water, vinegar and colouring were used, she said Laxmittha showed how to mix the items step-by-step to make them form bubbles.
“I made sure she understood the concepts fully and didn’t merely memorise the steps,” Jeevitha added.
To train for the experiments, Jeevitha said she prepared the necessities on a table by labelling the items and tools.
“For about two and a half months, Laxmittha spent an hour daily practising after completing her homework. She never got bored or restless doing the experiments,” she added.
Even during her holiday at her grandparents’ home, Laxmittha, who aspires to study medicine, continued to practise.
“Before going to bed, I would ask her to recall the experiments in order. At her age, she may not have been fully aware of the scale of it,” Jeevitha said.
“But as she grows older, she will realise the significance of the national record she has achieved,” she added.
