The National Science Week (MSN) 2023 is one of the initiatives of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) to promote innovation and creativity activities in the country among the people. This program supports the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy Action Plan (DSTIN) 2021-2030 which outlines the implementation of various initiatives, programs, and activities in leveraging science and technology towards the socio-economic growth of the country.
MSN 2023 was officiated by Yang Berhormat Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation on April 17, 2023, and will run until October 2023. The program is also implemented fully in a hybrid manner, involving carnivals in 14 states throughout Malaysia and online activities. MSN 2023 aims to involve 1.7 million school students, higher education institution students, and the general public.
The main objective of this initiative is to raise public awareness on the importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in daily life, attract interest and increase the number of students choosing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields in line with the National STEM agenda, as well as educate the public to appreciate and recognize contributions and successes in the field of science.
MSN 2023 will also conduct activities and competitions based on seven (7) main focus areas, which are Planetary Health, Chemistry and Biotechnology, Safe Nuclear Applications, Social Innovation, Engineering, Nanotechnology, and Space. This program is also led by leading agencies and strategic partners who incorporate aspects of creativity, innovation, science communication, safety, economy, public welfare, cultural awareness, Internet of Things (IoT), and Industry 4.0 in the activities and competitions to be implemented through MSN 2023.
Various agencies and strategic partners involved, such as the Academy of Sciences Malaysia, National Science Centre, Malaysian Biotechnology Institute (NIBM), Malaysian Chemistry Department, Malaysian Institute of Chemistry, Malaysian Nuclear Agency, Atomic Energy Licensing Board, National Nanotechnology Centre, Malaysian Innovation Foundation, and others, are working together to promote STI to the general public through various interactive and engaging activities and competitions.
More than 120 activities are planned, with more activities and competitions to follow. These programs and competitions involve participants of various age groups and the involvement of students and communities from urban and rural areas. Students and schools with the highest participation also have the opportunity to win special awards from MOSTI.