15/10/2025
🌊 Hands-on Learning: CAMS Students Navigate the South China Sea on Research Cruise ⚓️
Students and staff from the China–ASEAN College of Marine Sciences (CAMS), Xiamen University Malaysia, embarked on a transformative learning voyage through the XMU@Sea Program from 30 August to 11 September 2025. 🚢✨
Aboard the Research Vessel Tan Kah Kee (R/V TKK), the team sailed from Port Klang, Malaysia, to Xiamen, China, gaining hands-on experience in oceanographic research while fostering cross-border scientific collaboration. 🌏🤝
🔬 Training at Sea
This year’s program brought together 33 participants from diverse institutions — including CAMS (16), College of Ocean and Earth Science, XMU (7), Universiti Sains Malaysia (2), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (1), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (1), and 6 instructors from CAMS and XMU main campus. 🎓🌊
Participants came from backgrounds in Marine Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Geology, promoting rich interdisciplinary learning. During the cruise, students conducted:
🧪 Water sampling & chlorophyll analysis
🌿 Plankton identification
🪸 Sediment collection
🌊 Nutrient testing and marine parameter measurements
They also learned to operate advanced research instruments such as the CTD system, AA3 nutrient auto-analyzer, spectrophotometer, pH meter, Box Corer, and plankton nets. ⚙️
After the voyage, participants continued their learning at XMU’s main campus, processing samples and exploring state-of-the-art marine laboratories. 🔬🏛️
🤝 Collaboration and Cultural Exchange
Beyond research, the voyage encouraged cross-cultural exchange and teamwork. Students from different universities worked side by side, building communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. 💬🌍
Many shared that the experience broadened their perspective on marine science and strengthened their passion for ocean conservation. 💙
🌟 Inspiring Future Marine Scientists
Reflecting on his journey, participant Ong Joon Kit shared,
“It was a dream come true to work aboard such an advanced research vessel. This experience strengthened my passion for marine science and gave me a glimpse into the real world of ocean research.” 🌊✨
Over the past seven years, nearly 100 CAMS students and staff have joined the XMU@Sea Program. According to Dr. Pang Swee Yun, one of the lecturers onboard,
“The voyage allows students to step beyond the classroom, gaining real-world research experience while building resilience, teamwork, and critical thinking skills essential for their future careers.” 💪📚
🚢 About R/V Tan Kah Kee
Named in honour of Tan Kah Kee, the founding master of Xiamen University, the 3,700-ton R/V TKK represents his lifelong vision for scientific progress and education. ⚓️
Launched in 2017, the vessel serves as a floating classroom and laboratory, empowering students to explore the mysteries of the ocean and contribute to global marine sustainability. 🌏💙
