From 30 August to 11 September 2025, students and staff from the China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences (CAMS), Xiamen University Malaysia, joined the XMU@Sea Programme aboard the research vessel Tan Kah Kee (R/V TKK). 

Sailing from Port Klang, Malaysia, to Xiamen, China, the team received hands-on training in oceanographic research while working alongside peers from multiple institutions.

This year, the programme comprised 33 participants, including 16 students from CAMS, 7 from College of Ocean and Earth Science (COE), Xiamen University (XMUM), 2 from Universiti Sains Malaysia, one each from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, as well as 6 instructors from CAMS and XMU. The group included students specialising in marine chemistry, biology, physics and geology.

Throughout the voyage, students practiced water sampling, chlorophyll and nutrient analysis, plankton identification and sediment collection. They were also trained to use research equipment such as the CTD system, AA3 nutrient auto-analyser, spectrophotometer, pH meter, box corer and plankton nets.

After arriving in Xiamen, participants spent a week at XMU's main campus to process cruise samples using laboratory facilities. The visit introduced them to interdisciplinary research approaches and laboratory techniques.

The programme also provided a platform for students from different academic and cultural backgrounds to work together. Participants shared that the experience helped them improve communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills, while offering new perspectives on marine science and environmental stewardship.

Reflecting on the trip, student Ong Joon Kit said, "Working aboard the research vessel strengthened my interest in marine science, and gave me a clearer understanding of ocean research."

Over the past seven years, about 100 CAMS students and staff have taken part in the XMU@Sea Programme. CAMS lecturer Dr. Pang Swee Yun, who joined the 2025 voyage, noted that the training at sea enabled students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings and develop resilience and critical thinking.

About R/V Tan Kah Kee

The 3,700-ton research vessel is named in honour of Xiamen University founder Tan Kah Kee. Construction began in 2015, and the ship was launched in 2017. Designed as a mobile classroom and laboratory, it supports oceanographic research and student training across disciplines.