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Chem-E-Expo 2026 Promotes STEM Among Students from the Northern Golden Triangle


11 April 2026 – The School of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) came alive with youthful curiosity and scientific excitement as the Chem-E-Expo 2026 successfully brought together 400 students from primary and secondary schools across the northern “Golden Triangle” region of Penang, Kedah and Perak.

Organised by the Chemical Engineering Students Society (CheSS), the half-day programme was held from 8.00 am to 12.00 pm at KCK 1 and the Auditorium Hall, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Engineering Campus. The event served as a vibrant platform to introduce young learners to the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through engaging and hands-on experiences.

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Distinguished Guests and Strong Institutional Support

The programme was officiated in the presence of several distinguished guests, including Professor Ir. Dr. Mariatti Binti Jaafar @ Mustapha, Campus Director and Professor Ir. Dr. Zainal Ahmad, Dean of the School of Chemical Engineering. Also in attendance were Associate Professor Dr. Azam Taufiq Mohd Din, Deputy Dean (Academic and International), Associate Professor Dr. Vel Murugan, Deputy Dean (Research, Postgraduate and Community), Professor Madya Dr. Masrina Mohd Nadzir, CheSS Advisor, Ms. Nur Hazwani Zahirah, Project Director, and Mr. Ahmad Huzairy Zaharudin, representative from the Chemical Engineering Student Representative Council.

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The success of the programme was further supported by sponsors, namely the Kerian District Council as the Platinum sponsor and LVIO Precision Sdn. Bhd. as the Bronze sponsor.

Participation from across the Northern Region

The expo saw enthusiastic participation from schools across the three states, including:

  • Form Six College, Kulim, Kedah
  • MRSM Kubang Pasu, Kedah
  • MRSM Balik Pulau, Penang
  • MRSM Pendang, Kedah
  • MRSM Pengkalan Hulu, Perak
  • Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi, Gopeng, Perak
  • SMK Seberang Jaya, Penang
  • SMK Taman Widuri, Penang
  • SMK Valdor, Penang
  • SMKA (P) Al-Mashoor, Penang
  • SK Methodist, Nibong Tebal, Penang
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Interactive Learning Through Hands-On Activities

Participants were immersed in a wide range of interactive and educational activities, designed to spark interest in STEM fields. Among the highlights were:

  • Games booths that introduced fundamental engineering concepts in a fun and accessible manner
  • USMCEC and Chem-E-Car exhibitions, showcasing student innovation and creativity
  • Eco-enzyme and tempeh-making workshops, demonstrating real-life applications of chemical and biochemical processes
  • Laboratory visits, including the Unit Operations Laboratory, offering students a glimpse into practical engineering training
  • Interactive exhibitions featuring research, technology, and product demonstrations

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These activities allowed students to explore how chemical engineering principles are applied in everyday life, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Advancing STEM and Sustainable Development Goals

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Chem-E-Expo 2026 was designed with clear objectives, including early exposure to chemical engineering concepts, fostering interest in STEM disciplines, and providing a platform for knowledge exchange through workshops and demonstrations. The programme also served as a meaningful celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Engineering Campus.

Importantly, the initiative aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

  • SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting accessible and engaging STEM learning
  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, through exposure to emerging technologies
  • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, via sustainability-focused activities such as eco-enzyme production

Inspiring the Next Generation

The overwhelming response and active participation from students underscored the importance of outreach programmes in shaping future scientists and engineers. Chem-E-Expo 2026 not only introduced participants to the possibilities within chemical engineering but also inspired them to pursue careers in STEM fields.

The School of Chemical Engineering, through CheSS, remains committed to nurturing young talent and strengthening its role as a catalyst for education, innovation, and community engagement in the region.

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Text by : ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. MOHAMAD HEKARL UZIR