Global Malaysian Astronomers Convention (GMAC) 2023 – Penang Roadshow
14th January 2023 - The Global Malaysian Astronomers’ Convention (GMAC) 2023 – Penang Roadshow was co-organised by USM School of Physics, Astronomical Society of Penang (ASP), USM Physical Science Association (PSF) and the USM Astronomy Club (KAUSM). The aim of this event was to allow the public and astronomy enthusiasts interact with Malaysian astronomers, and to celebrate astronomy activities together. It was a day filled with talks, exhibitions, food and fun!
During the day, the art hall of KOMCA was filled with exhibitions participated by 9 exhibitors from colleges, NGOs, secondary schools and private companies. Some of the highlights include the exhibition by Mr Nor Azam Mat Noor, who showed off his exquisite collection of astrolabes; and the USM Astronomy Club, who created a 3D printed model of the James Webb Space Telescope.
The KOMCA hall was also filled with participants who came to listen to some intriguing astronomy talks by several Malaysian astronomers working across the world. Among the speakers were Dr Kevin Koay Jun Yi, who was involved in the production of the first ever image of a black hole; Dr Mah Jingyi, a researcher in Germany studying exoplanets; Mr Mohd Zulhelmi Moh Yusof, a science officer from the Sheikh Tahir Astronomical Centre (PFST); and finally Mr. Lai Hoong Chuin, a student in China pursuing a PhD in aerospace engineering.
During the night, the event An Evening with Astronomers was held, where four experts in astronomy, Dr Kevin Koay Jun Yi, Dr Chong Hon Yew, Dr Abdul Halim Abdul Aziz and Dr Paul T P Ho shared their journey in astronomy with the audience. The event was officiated by our very own Dean for the School of Physics, Professor Dr Abdul Razak Ibrahim, and the discussion forum was moderated by Mr Muhammad ‘Izzat Mohd Zubir, alumni of the School of Physics. The event ended with a star party at the basketball court opposite the hall. 8 telescopes were setup by astronomy enthusiasts, and the crowd get to see some planets and stars through them.
Overall, the event was a success: it attracted a crowd of 500 participants from all over Penang! The School of Physics acknowledges the sponsorship of Chek Hup Coffee, Forgasia, YTL Foundation and Auto-City for the event. We look forward to organising another astronomy carnival in the future!
