Symposium on Public Understanding of Science and Technology (PUSAT)

PREAMBLE
One of the important requirements in the development of a progressive nation is to harness the potential of science and technology. A prerequisite for this is a proper appreciation of science and technology by the citizens-at-large. Recognising this, the Malaysian Scientific Association has regularly organised seminars, workshops and symposia on 'Public Understanding of Science and Technology' or 'PUSAT' in short.

INTRODUCTION
Malaysia is considered a fast developing country which is aiming to achieve development status by the year 2020. Our government has, since independence in 1957, accepted the fact that we must be committed to harnessing science and technology if we are to achieve our development goals. The country has since embarked in a big way on science education both at school and tertiary levels, scientific research, technology development, innovation and a science and technology based industry. While there is good acceptance of the importance of science and technology, there are also many fears, myths and misgivings. For our country to excel in science and technology and to level with the industrialised countries, there has got to be a widespread appreciation of science and technology. The population-at-large must also keep up-to-date with the latest scientific advances so that they can better understand their uses and potentials. The series of PUSAT conferences and symposia organised by MSA are intended to achieve these objectives.

OBJECTIVES
The objectives of PUSAT are:

• To promote better public understanding of science and technology among students, teachers and the general public
• To relate science and technology to everyday life
• To promote greater appreciation of science and technology in national development
• To encourage the younger generation to take up careers in science and technology
• To review existing initiatives and methods of promoting public understanding of science and technology
• To encourage greater public involvement in scientific and technological decisions and developments