KidZania Kuala Lumpur launched its “ArchaeoKidZ” variable school-holiday programme, where children get to experience a series of themed role-play activities in history and archaeology. The initiative is aimed at developing historical and archaeological understanding in young minds through innovative and engaging learning experiences.

The launch was officiated by Guest of Honour, Professor Dato’ Dr Mokhtar Saidin, Director of the Centre for Global Archaeological Research (CGAR) in Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), who also served as the Vice-President of the Ikatan Ahli Arkeologi Malaysia (IAAM).

Speaking at the launch, Professor Dato’ Dr Mokhtar Saidin commented, “I applaud the effort made by KidZania Kuala Lumpur in taking the initiative to develop this programme, which I am certain will be an effective way to raise awareness among children and their parents of the importance of history and archaeology. Teaching children to understand the past will help them to understand change. It teaches them to think, which helps to develop their intellectual growth and skills such as cognitive skills. It is important when children are in the process of learning to be adults.”

“At KidZania, we always aim at creating quality programmes, which are educational and filled with fun. With the expertise of our partners, the ArchaeoKidZ programme is geared to inspire interest in history and archaeology. I’m excited about replicating the success of our “Science & Space” programme held in May where we implemented engaging activities to educate kids on the wonders of science and space. Moving forward, we will be actively rolling out more programmes like this,” he added.

KidZania Kuala Lumpur’s ArchaeoKidZ programme runs from 10 – 25 August 2019 to coincide with the school holidays in Malaysia. Two main activities, three-weekend workshops and a special activity for loyalty programme members will be featured amidst other establishment activities to take place around different locations within KidZania to bring history and archaeology to life, which is in line with KidZania’s philosophy to empower children to “Learn Life Today”.

In essence, the programme is designed to encourage exposure to history and archaeology, providing opportunities for the young community to learn how the world came to be with interactive workshops and hands-on activities, equipping them with vital skillsets for the future.

The main activities include a Fossil Excavation to introduce participants to basic principles and techniques of archaeological excavation with proper Archaeologist tools. Meanwhile, kids will learn about the type of dinosaurs and their profile in the Know Your Dino activity. Both activities by Canon are a form of sensory play that will help them to develop and improve their gross and fine motor skills.

As part of the programme, KidZania Kuala Lumpur will also be conducting a BkidZanian special activity supported by F&N namely Spell the Dino, where the kids have to spell dinosaur names correctly to redeem prizes. Participants will also have the opportunity to make primitive-inspired bead bracelets, design their very own brand of dinosaur with handprint and paint, enjoy earth-coloured manicure service, and listen to a live program with in-house radio DJs who will discuss about archaeology and dinosaurs.

Last but not least, parents and kids are in for some squeaky clean experiences at the Dino Soap workshop run by the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) where they will learn how to make their own dinosaur-shaped soap using palm oil!

More information about the programme and further details about activities can be found at .