6 August 2026 – The Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) organized the Biochemistry Research Laboratory Expedition Program 2026 at the Preclinical Block, UKM Faculty of Medicine, Kuala Lumpur Campus. This community service initiative welcomed 45 young children aged 4 to 6, accompanied by 7 teachers from Tadika APC Pintar, Mahkota Hills, Mantin, Negeri Sembilan.

The initiative aimed to provide early exposure to medical science and research for young children through a “learning through play” approach.

The event commenced at Lecture Hall 2 with welcome remarks from the Head of the Department of Biochemistry, Prof. Dr. Suzana Makpol, followed by an appreciation speech from the Operator of Tadika APC Pintar, Mrs. Noramezah Amran.

The program was officially launched by the Assistant Dean (Entrepreneurship) of the UKM Faculty of Medicine, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azlan Helmy Abd Samat. During the ceremony, the Appointment Certificate for Tadika APC Pintar STEM Resource Expert was officially presented to the kindergarten, symbolizing a strengthened partnership in early-childhood STEM education.

Before entering the research laboratories, participants enjoyed an engaging Scientist Talk Show presented by Dr. Norwahidah Abdul Karim (Program Chair), which introduced the role and career of a scientist.

Participants were then divided into four groups to rotate through four interactive activity stations located at the Multipurpose Laboratory (MPG), Level 8:

• Station 1: Color Wheel – Visual color experiments and basic chemical reactions.

• Station 2: Blowing Up Balloons – An engaging lesson on gases and acid-base reactions.

• Station 3: Aseptic Technique – An introduction to laboratory hygiene and micro-organism control.

• Station 4: Balance Master – Activities focusing on motor skills, balance control, and basic physics concepts.

In addition to hands-on lab experiments, the students visited the Department of Medical Parasitology & Entomology Gallery on Level 6 to view specimens and microorganisms up close.

This program not only gave young children the opportunity to experience a real research laboratory environment firsthand, but it also aligned with national aspirations to foster STEM literacy starting at the preschool level.

The program concluded with the presentation of certificates of participation, souvenirs, and a photo session. The Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, UKM hopes to continue such community outreach initiatives in the future to spark curiosity and a love for science among young minds.