On March 21, 2024, SJK (C) Yuh Min in Tambunan was buzzing with excitement. Over 300 students from Primary One to Six, accompanied by 20 teachers, participated in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) educational outreach program. The event was aimed to ignite curiosity, foster learning, and inspire a love for science and nature among the young minds.
Group photo with the principal, teachers, staffs, and students of the SJK (C) Yuh Min Tambunan. Photo 2024 Wallise Sia.
The TEE Lab’s Dr Li Yuen was invited as the main speaker, and delivered an inspiring presentation titled "Exploring Nature's Marvels: Bugs, Forests & Fun Adventures". She delved into the intricate world of insects and forests, and taught the students about the crucial roles that dung beetles play in recycling nutrients and maintaining the balance of ecosystems. Li Yuen also shared her own experiences and fun adventures during scientific expeditions, which sparked the students' imagination and curiosity about nature’s wonders.
(L) A student raised his hand to respond to a quiz question. Photo 2024 Wallise Sia. (R) Video presentation on the Danum Valley field ecology course (video compiled by TEE Lab). Photo 2024 Li Yuen.
To enhance the learning experience, the students had the opportunity to examine insect specimens up close through portable microscopes. They were amazed by the intricate patterns and structures of dung beetle species, which deepened their appreciation for insects. In addition to the educational sessions, the program offered engaging activities at various booths. At these booths, the students engaged in drawing, coloring, and games, which fostered creativity and teamwork while reinforcing the concepts learned during the presentations.
Engaging the students through drawing activities, puzzles, insect specimens and stickers. Photos 2024 Wallise Sia & Li Yuen.
The Institute of Tropical Biology for Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, also displayed a gallery on the importance of conservation efforts. One of the gallery’s attractions was a display of protected insect species, including the magnificent Rajah Brooke's Birdwing butterfly (Trogonoptera brookiana).
Institute of Tropical Biology for Conservation (UMS)’s gallery on conservation efforts. Photo 2024 Wallise Sia.
Li Yuen receiving a Certificate of Appreciation. Photo 2024 Wallise Sia.
We were delighted to be part of this outreach program, and to have contributed to inspiring the next generation of scientists, environmentalists, and conservationists. For more information on this event, check out this Facebook video.
Written by Li Yuen.