ASTROQUIZ CHAMPS: Karim (second left) poses with the students of SMK Kidurong and their
teacher, Nur Aini Azahari (fifth left) after the prize giving ceremony at the Sultan Iskandar Planetarium. Also seen are Romie (left) and Affandi (right). — Photo by Jeffery Mostapa
KUCHING: Youths in Sarawak are urged to contribute towards the Malaysia Youth Index (MYI) which is conducted biennially by the Malaysian Institute for Research in Youth Development.
MYI, which carries out case studies and research, plays an instrumental role for the government to plan developments and implement policies tailored for Malaysian youths.
Among the highest MYI which was tabulated in 2011 according to Assistant Minister for Youth Development Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, had shown that youths were more inclined towards self development 67.2per cent, identity (58 per cent) and self potential (66.7 percent).
Speaking during the closing of the state level Astroquiz finals at the Sultan Iskandar Planetarium yesterday, Karim is optimistic that through hard work and commitment, Sarawakian youths will be able to improve the index.
He also said that programmes such as Astroquiz jointly organised by the planetarium and the Sarawak Astronomy Association would be able to contribute towards MYI and at the same time reflect youth developments in Sarawak.
“The government also views such activities as a potential partner towards better human capital development,” said Karim who is also Assistant Minister for Housing and Asajaya assemblyman.
He also said that the Astroquiz could well be the starting point for school children to learn about the wonders of astronomy which have greatly influenced today’s technology.
“Through astronomy, among the major spin-offs are man-made satellites which are used for telecommunication, global positioning, mapping and military defence,” said Karim adding that the traditional use of the stars and constellations are initially for navigation and charting calendars.
He also said that Malaysian youths who are equipped with ample knowledge of astronomy together with science and technology would inevitably be among the nation’s strength.
Meanwhile, the 2013 Astroquiz finals was won by SMK Kidurong, Bintulu, which was represented by Nurul Asyiqin Ibrahim, Nur Husnina Asyura Mezelan, Andiana Ilam Smak and Sarah Paul.
Representing zone four, the students won an Astronomy programme worth RM10,000 for their school.
Coming in second place was SMK Kai Chung, Bintangor, while the third and consolation prize was handed to SMK Luar Bandar No.1, Sibu and SMK Batu Kawa, Kuching respectively.
Among those present at the prize giving ceremony was the Sarawak Astronomy Association president Datu Romie Sigan Daniel and the Ministry of Social Development permanent secretary Affandi Keli.