KUALA TERENGGANU – The excitement surrounding science came alive at the Terengganu Science and Creativity Centre (PSKT) as visitors from across the East Coast gathered for National Science Week 2026, turning the three-day event into a platform for learning, discovery and family engagement.
Held from July 18 to 20, the East Coast Zone edition of National Science Week is organised to promote greater public understanding and appreciation of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), while encouraging more Malaysians to explore how science shapes everyday life.
The programme, driven by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), brings together various government agencies, educational institutions and STEM-related organisations through interactive exhibitions, demonstrations and educational activities designed for visitors of all ages.
MOSTI continues to emphasise the importance of strengthening STEM awareness among Malaysians, particularly among younger generations, as part of efforts to develop future talents capable of contributing to the country’s science and technology ecosystem.
At PSKT, visitors were given the opportunity to experience science beyond textbooks through interactive galleries, digital displays and hands-on activities that encourage curiosity and creative thinking.
For Nurina Raudah Jannah Zulkifli, a Form Four student from Sekolah Menengah Seri Berang, Hulu Terengganu, the opportunity to attend the carnival was worth the journey despite coming from outside the city.
“Distance was never a barrier for us to attend this science carnival. Some of us came together with our teachers, while others came with their parents or made their own way here. It is a meaningful experience, especially for students like us from rural areas,” she said.
The event also attracted families who welcomed the opportunity to spend quality time together while exploring science-related activities, especially with free admission provided throughout the three-day programme.
For homemaker Sanizaratna Mohd Shafiae, 44, the carnival provides an affordable and educational outing for families.
“For a big family like ours, especially during uncertain economic times, cost is always something we consider before planning activities. Today, we are taking full advantage of this opportunity while spending valuable time together as a family.
“This is actually our fourth visit here, and the exhibitions at the science centre never fail to interest us. This time, we came with more family members and relatives,” she said.
The carnival also drew interest from adults, proving that STEM awareness is not only relevant to students but also the wider community.
Mohd Azrie Mat Amin, who attended the event with his wife from Durian Guling, Marang, said the programme offered a different weekend experience compared with their usual outings.
“Usually, we spend our weekends visiting other tourist attractions, but this time we decided to come here after hearing about the programme from our friends in the village.
“I believe this science carnival is not only suitable for students and young people, but also adults like us. The exhibition on radiation hazards in daily life was something new and interesting for me to learn,” he said.
The opening day of the carnival was further enlivened by the ‘Jom Lari-Lari’ programme, involving participation from visitors and various agencies. The involvement of STEM-related organisations throughout the event adds value to the fourth edition of the carnival, which concludes on July 20.