The R/V Tan Kah Kee (“嘉庚”号) Open Day 2026 officially commenced in Kota Kinabalu on 7 August, welcoming members of the public to explore Xiamen University's oceanographic research vessel.

The opening ceremony was officiated by The Honorable Jordan Jude, Assistant Minister to the Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Sabah, representing the Minister. Guests included Datuk Dr. Jamili Nais, Deputy State Secretary (Administration), Sabah; Datuk Dr. Ahemad bin Sade, Deputy State Secretary (Development), Sabah; Datuk Mohd Hanafiah bin Mohd Kassim, Deputy State Secretary (Special Duties), Sabah; Prof. Datuk Dr. Kasim Haji Mansor, Vice Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Sabah; Dr. Zhu Xinglong, Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Kota Kinabalu; Datuk Haji Datu Rosmadi bin Datu Sulai, JP, Chief Operating Officer of the Secretariat of Sabah Maju Jaya.

The Honorable Jordan Jude, Assistant Minister to the Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Sabah, representing the Minister, officiates the opening ceremony of the R/V Tan Kah Kee Open Day 2026.

The ceremony was also attended by representatives from government agencies, universities, research institutions, industry partners, and the Malaysia–China Friendship Association Sabah.

Jointly organized by the Sabah State Government, Xiamen University (XMU), and Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM), the two-day outreach program celebrates the enduring partnership between Malaysia and China in advancing marine science, higher education, scientific research, and international collaboration.

This year's visit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 80th Anniversary of Marine Sciences at Xiamen University and the 10th Anniversary of Xiamen University Malaysia. It also forms part of the XMU @ Sea Programme, which provides undergraduate students from around the world with immersive learning experience through oceanographic research, scientific exploration, and cultural exchange.

Distinguished guests receive a commemorative souvenir aboard the R/V Tan Kah Kee during the courtesy visit. From left: Datuk Haji Datu Rosmadi bin Datu Sulai, Datuk Mohd Hanafiah bin Mohd Kassim, Prof. Dr. Wang Rui Fang, the Honourable Jordan Jude, Prof. Datuk Dr. Kassim Haji Mansor, Datuk Dr. Ahemad bin Sade.

Following the ceremony, invited guests toured the R/V Tan Kah Kee, learning about its laboratories, scientific instruments, and oceanographic research capabilities. Known as the "Marine Campus of Xiamen University", the 3,600-ton research vessel serves as a platform for marine research, education, and international collaboration.

The Kota Kinabalu Open Day will continue on 7 August 2026 (8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) and 8 August 2026 (8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.). The public are welcomed to board the vessel, experience its research facilities, learn about marine science and ocean exploration, and interact with researchers and students.

Following its departure from Kota Kinabalu, the R/V Tan Kah Kee will sail to Port Klang with an international delegation of students and faculty members for offshore scientific training and academic exchange. Another Public Open Day will be held at Port Klang Cruise Terminal on 16 and 17 August 2026. Click to reserve a tour: https://events.xmu.edu.my/tkkrv/port-klang/

Delegates tour the navigation bridge of the R/V Tan Kah Kee and learn about its navigation systems.