
Malaysia launches astronomy module for visually impaired
The initiative, a collaboration between the National Planetarium and Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, aims to make science education more inclusive.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang highlighted the module's importance in breaking barriers for visually impaired learners.
'This module is tailored for schools with special needs students, ensuring astronomy education is accessible beyond those with perfect vision,' he said during the launch at the National Planetarium.
The module features tactile models of the sun and solar system, accompanied by audio descriptions and sound effects for an immersive learning experience.
Chang noted that 12 schools have been selected for the initial phase under the Inclusive Astronomy Transit Programme.
The project aligns with Malaysia's National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy and the Malaysia MADANI vision, which advocates equal educational opportunities.
Chang also encouraged more public-private partnerships to support students with disabilities in pursuing knowledge.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Pondok teachers must master AI to counter digital challenges, says PM
MACHANG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on pondok school teachers to master information technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to navigate the digital era. He warned that failing to adapt could leave traditional religious institutions vulnerable to modern intellectual challenges. 'If we do not master it, others will, and our children will adopt AI based on the frameworks of the United States or France,' he said. He stressed the need for resilience, Islamic understanding, and wisdom in guiding students through technological advancements. Anwar spoke at the opening of the MADANI Ijtimak of Kelantan Islamic Scholars and Pondok Teachers 2025 at UiTM Machang. Present were Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud also attended the event. Anwar emphasised the need to rebuild pondok schools as strongholds of Islamic history to counter secular influences. 'Last month, I called in officials from the Finance Ministry to find a way to rebuild pondok schools as strongholds,' he added. He said this effort is crucial for realising the MADANI vision in its true sense. Earlier, Anwar distributed RM1.03 million in contributions to pondok school representatives at the National Umara'-Ulama Pondok Dialogue (UMRAN) 2025. He reiterated the government's commitment to restoring and elevating pondok institutions to uphold faith and morals. This initiative involves collaboration between the Finance Ministry and Jakim to upgrade facilities and technology in religious schools. - Bernama

Malay Mail
3 hours ago
- Malay Mail
Anwar to attend scholars' gathering, padi project visit on final day of Kelantan PMR 2025
KOTA BHARU, Aug 9 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to open the 'Ijtima' MADANI Ulama dan Guru Pondok Kelantan' or gathering of Islamic religious scholars and pondok teachers, in addition to attending several other events on the last day of the 2025 MADANI Rakyat Programme (PMR) in Kelantan today. The Ijtima' or gathering serves as the main platform to strengthen the role of ulama (religious scholars) and pondok teachers in preserving religious education and pondok culture in the state. It was scheduled to begin at 9.15 am today at Universiti Teknologi MARA Campus in Machang. Later, at 11.20 am, the prime minister is scheduled to visit a padi planting project in the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) area at Kampung Gemalai Baruh Alami, near here. Kampung Gemalai is recognised as an agro-ecotourism destination and is notable for its organic rice fields, which are entirely free from pesticides and chemical fertilisers. After that, Anwar is scheduled to launch the Kelantan MADANI Wave, to be held at the Main Hall of Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital, Kubang Kerian, before concluding his programme in Kelantan today by closing the Kelantan PMR 2025. The Kelantan PMR 2025 closing ceremony is scheduled to start at 2.15 pm at the compound of Stadium Sultan Muhammad IV. The three-day Kelantan PMR 2025 is led by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) in collaboration with the Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister's Department, and supported by various other ministries and government agencies. The programme offers more than 100 direct services to the people, exhibitions of the latest technology and various initiatives to reach out to the community through a comprehensive approach by the MADANI Government. Themed 'Science, Technology and Innovation for the Wellbeing of the People', the Kelantan PMR 2025 highlights the carnival concept and comprehensive service delivery that benefits the well-being of the people. — Bernama


The Star
6 hours ago
- The Star
Expanding nuclear tech awareness in rural areas
TUMPAT: Efforts are being stepped up to raise awareness and understanding of nuclear technology among rural communities, including in Orang Asli settlements, to ensure no one is left behind in the country's technological development. Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohamad Yusof Apdal said this was crucial, as nuclear technology is still often misunderstood and feared, with many associating it solely with weapons. In reality, he said, nuclear technology holds vast potential in sectors such as energy, healthcare and agriculture. 'When people hear the word 'nuclear', they often link it to weapons, but in fact, this technology can benefit rural communities, including the Orang Asli by serving as an energy source or a catalyst for economic development,' he added. Mohamad Yusof was speaking after closing a nuclear technology satellite programme at Jeti Kasih in Kampung Pasir Pekan Tengah here yesterday, Bernama reported. He said the programme's theme, 'Teknologi Nuklear Santuni Kasih Rakyat', reflected the aspirations of Malaysia Madani, sending a clear message that nuclear technology should no longer be seen as exclusive to certain groups, but accessible and beneficial to all. 'The Malaysian Nuclear Agency has developed various nuclear technology-based products and services that are safe, high-impact and beneficial to the public, including in the fields of medicine, agriculture, industry and the environment.'