Special Science Day Encourages Participation Of PwDs In STI

KUALA LUMPUR, May 12 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) continues to strengthen inclusivity in science education through the Special Science Day (SSD) programme aimed at increasing the participation of persons with disabilities (PwD) in science, technology and innovation (STI).

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Li Kang said the programme, organised by the National Science Centre for the past decade, has seen growing participation from students and the PwD community through collaboration with the Ministry of Education and state education departments.

He said innovation in teaching materials has become a major focus of the programme to cater to the diverse needs of the PwD community.

“Previously, we may have focused mainly on Braille translation, but today we are seeing the development of three-dimensional (3D) learning products that allow students to touch and understand diagrams, such as those used at the National Planetarium.

“In this regard, we also encourage local innovators to showcase PwD-friendly ideas and prototypes through competitions such as National Science Week, Techlympics and Innowathon,” he said after officiating the 2026 Special Science Day at the National Science Centre (PSN) today.

Also present were MOSTI Secretary-General Datuk Dr K. Nagulendran, Deputy Secretary-General (Science Planning and Cultivation) Datuk Ruziah Shafei and PSN Director Dr Norzilawati Md Kamsor.

This year’s programme, themed “Inspirasi Impian Spektrum”, emphasises a play-based learning approach in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through sensory experiences involving sight, touch, smell, taste and hearing.

Chang said the initiative aligns with the creativity and compassion principles under the MADANI Malaysia concept, while reinforcing the National Science Centre’s role in ensuring STI knowledge is accessible to all segments of society.

He added that the programme targets individuals with hearing, visual, speech, physical, learning and mental disabilities, among others.

Throughout the two-day programme, participants will engage in various interactive activities, including science and technology exploration, live science demonstrations, sensory game workshops, special performances, and practical creative activities tailored to the needs of the target groups.

Among the featured activities are the optical booth, cerebrum booth, natural aroma black box, stacking cups, cheerful Mimo, giant soap bubbles, aqua heroes, budding scientists and science and technology exploration sessions.

-- BERNAMA