Forensic Science Educational Tour 2026

Twenty-four Year 3 students from the Forensic Science Programme, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), participated in an academic visit to the Department of Chemistry Malaysia, Terengganu State, and the Institute of Climate Adaptation and Marine Biotechnology (ICAMB), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), from 21 to 22 June 2026. The delegation was accompanied by Dr Nur Waliyuddin Hanis bin Zainal Abidin, a lecturer from the Forensic Science Programme, School of Health Sciences, USM.

The two-day visit was organised to provide students with greater exposure to forensic DNA applications, facilitate knowledge exchange with experts, strengthen professional networking, and explore opportunities for future academic and research collaboration between the institutions.

On the first day, the delegation visited the Department of Chemistry Malaysia, Terengganu State, where students received an overview of the department's roles and forensic services. The visit included guided tours of the DNA, Toxicology and Narcotics laboratories, which the Science Officers introduced the analytical instruments and laboratory workflows employed in forensic casework. Students were also exposed to various analytical techniques and the processes involved in handling forensic evidence for scientific examination.

A key highlight of the visit was a briefing on laboratory quality management and accreditation, delivered by Sir Shafizi and Sir Sufian. The session focused on the implementation of ISO/IEC 17025, the international standard for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, providing students with valuable insights into the quality assurance practices that underpin reliable forensic analyses.

On the second day, the delegation visited the Institute of Climate Adaptation and Marine Biotechnology (ICAMB), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT). The programme commenced with an introductory briefing on ICAMB's research activities and areas of expertise, followed by guided laboratory tours. Researchers at ICAMB shared their ongoing work in DNA-related research, exposing students to current molecular biology techniques and research applications beyond conventional forensic practice. The visit also provided an opportunity for interactive discussions between students and researchers, fostering academic exchange and strengthening professional connections.

Throughout the programme, students gained valuable first-hand experience of laboratory operations in both government and academic research settings. The exposure enabled them to better appreciate the practical applications of forensic and molecular DNA analyses while enhancing their understanding of laboratory management, research methodologies and quality assurance systems.

The academic visit reflects USM's commitment to providing experiential learning opportunities that complement classroom education through meaningful engagement with industry and research institutions. Such initiatives equip students with broader professional perspectives, strengthen their practical knowledge and encourage future collaborations that contribute to excellence in forensic science education and research.