The Star , Tuesday November 6, 2007

Ministry to set up ‘Rocket Clubs’ in schools

"We hope the two (Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Dr Faiz) will develop political interest. We will take it from there" - KHAIRY JAMALUDDIN

KUALA LUMPUR: Rocket Clubs will be set up in schools to instil interest in aerospace and astrophysics, Umno Youth vice-chief Khairy Jamaluddin said.

He said Education Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin Tun Hussein was inspired to set up the clubs following the successful mission of the first Malaysian Angkasawan.

Hishammuddin had called on Angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor and Major Dr Faiz Khaleed to support the programmes.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Dr Faiz were at the Putra World Trade Centre to share their experiences with Umno delegates.

They also handed over the Jalur Gemilang, which Dr Sheikh Muszaphar brought to space, to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Asked if Umno Youth would woo Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Dr Faiz to join the party, Khairy said the response from the duo had been encouraging.

“We hope the two will develop political interest. We will take it from there,” he added.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar said the Umno assembly could be used as a platform to generate interest in science, technology and aerospace.

“I have a greater responsibility now. I am willing to play an active role to instil interest in aerospace, especially among the younger generation,” said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, who also presented a slide show on his experiences in space.

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/11/6/nation/19390318&sec=nation