XMUM & XMU Students Explore World-Class Research Vessel Tan Kah Kee (TKK)
Hands-on Learning: CAMS Students Navigate 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 Programme from August 30 to September 11, 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 and fostering cross-border scientific collaboration.
Training at Sea
This year’s Programme brought together 33 participants from diverse academic and institutional backgrounds, including students from CAMS (16), College of Ocean and Earth Science (COE) at XMU main campus (7), Universiti Sains Malaysia (2), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (1), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (1), and 6 instructors from CAMS and XMU main campus. The multidisciplinary team included students majoring in marine Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Geology — fostering rich cross-field collaboration and learning.
During the research cruise, students practiced water sampling, chlorophyll and nutrient analysis, plankton identification, and sediment collection — gaining valuable experience in real-world marine research. The students were also trained to operate advanced marine instruments such as the CTD system, AA3 nutrient auto-analyzer, spectrophotometer, pH meter, Box Corer, and plankton nets.
Following the voyage, students stayed at XMU main campus for a week to process cruise samples using the cutting-edge facilities. These visits offered insights into interdisciplinary marine research and state-of-the-art laboratory techniques.
Collaboration and Cultural Exchange
The cruise provided not only scientific training but also an opportunity for cross-cultural interaction. Working alongside peers from different institutions, participants developed strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Many reflected that the collaboration broadened their perspectives on marine science and strengthened their passion for ocean conservation.
Inspiring Future Marine Scientists
Reflecting on their journey, many participants described the programme as eye-opening and inspiring. “It was a dream come true to work aboard such an advanced research vessel,” Ong Joon Kit shared “This experience strengthened my passion for marine science and gave me a glimpse into the real world of ocean research.”
In the past seven years, nearly 100 students and staff members from CAMS have participated in the XMU@Sea Program. Dr. Pang Swee Yun, one of CAMS lecturers aboard R/V TKK, highlighted that the voyage allowed 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
In honor of Xiamen University’s founding master, Tan Kah Kee, the 3,700-ton R/V TKK stands as a symbol of his vision for scientific progress and education. Construction began in 2015 and the vessel was launched in 2017, fulfilling Xiamen University’s century-old dream of advancing oceanographic research and nurturing the next generation of marine scientists. It serves as a mobile classroom and laboratory, inspiring students to explore the mysteries of the ocean while contributing to global marine sustainability.
