KUALA TERENGGANU: The Terengganu Huang Association is using science as a gateway to help younger generations better understand their cultural heritage while fostering greater appreciation of cultural diversity.
The initiative was showcased at the Terengganu Science and Creativity Centre (PSKT) during its Moon Observation and Lantern Festival programme on Sept 26.
Association chairman Wee Pit Beng said the initiative was designed to introduce young people to their cultural roots through a relevant and appealing approach for today’s generation.
“This year’s programme adopted a different approach by using science as a medium to engage younger participants and introduce them to their cultural heritage,” he said.
“Lanterns are an important part of our cultural identity, but there are also scientific principles behind them that can be explored. Moon observation is another example, as it is closely linked to Chinese cultural traditions while also offering opportunities for scientific learning.”
He said the children were taught about the phases of the moon, how they affect the tides and how gravity works.
Wee said the programme went beyond preserving Chinese cultural heritage in Terengganu by fostering greater understanding between communities through the sharing of traditions, values and experiences.
He said previous editions were organised on a much smaller scale within Kuala Terengganu’s Chinatown community, but hosting this year’s event at PSKT enabled people from different ethnic backgrounds to participate.
The programme also received support from PSKT, whose management viewed such initiatives as an opportunity to broaden the role of science centres within the community.
PSKT chief operating officer Hilman Hajijan said the event demonstrated that science centres could contribute not only to STEM education but also to cultural and social development.
“This programme shows that a science centre can be more than a place for learning STEM subjects. It can also serve as a platform that connects knowledge with cultural heritage and community values,” he said during the programme’s closing ceremony.
“We practise an open-door policy and welcome initiatives that bring benefits to the wider community.”
Besides the lantern parade and moon observation session, visitors participated in various activities throughout the day, including cultural performances, mooncake tasting, a children’s Chinese costume competition and a cooking competition.
