Where Science

Hits the Headline

Big discoveries, bite-sized stories. We break down the latest in science into clear,
engaging reads that anyone can understand.

Our Story

As Malaysia’s first science newspaper, The Petri Dish began as a small initiative driven by scientists, researchers, and science communicators who shared a commitment to accurate reporting and thoughtful storytelling. From its earliest days, the publication set out to make science approachable without compromising on rigor, respecting both the integrity of research and the intelligence of its readers.

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Our Mission

To make science accessible, accurate, and relevant by translating complex research and scientific ideas into clear, engaging stories that inform public understanding, encourage critical thinking, and support evidence-based conversations.

Our Vision

To be a trusted platform for science communication in the region, bridging the gap between researchers and the public, and fostering a society that values scientific knowledge, curiosity, and informed 
decision-making.

Meet The Minds Behind

The Petri Dish

Mahaletchumy Arujanan

Ts. Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan is one scientist who has opted to be out in the forefront as a science journalist than work with test tubes. She loves engaging with the public and this passion together with her multiple science background has put her in good stead as an effective science communicator. She has a PhD in Science Communication, Masters in Biotechnology and Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology and Biochemistry. Her training provides her with the strong foundation to bring science and biotechnology to the public domain, while her passion connects her with her audience locally and on the international podium. She enjoys her non-routine job and the freedom to try out new communication approaches. Currently she holds court as the Executive Director of the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre and is the Founding Editor-in-Chief of The Petri Dish.

Joseph Masilamany

Joseph Masilamany is a Malaysian journalist, author and poet whose career spans more than three decades. A versatile and deeply curious writer, he covers politics, faith, culture, human rights, the environment, science and the everyday triumphs and struggles of ordinary people. His growing interest in science journalism reflects a particular fascination with the intersection of scientific discovery, society and public life. He seeks to make complex scientific and environmental issues accessible to general readers while exploring their wider human, ethical and social implications. His writing combines journalistic rigour with narrative sensitivity, bringing a human perspective to subjects ranging from biodiversity and climate change to public health, technology and the natural world.

Shekher Balasundram

Shekher is an advertising & partnership lead strategist and he brings a strong media background to The Petri Dish. He leads sales and partnerships for the publication. With years spent understanding how audiences engage with content, he connects brands and organizations with one of the region’s most distinctive science-focused platforms. His focus is on building lasting relationships and creating advertising and sponsorship opportunities that deliver real value for partners while supporting the publication’s mission. Approachable and commercially sharp, Shekher plays a key role in ensuring The Petri Dish continues to grow and reach new readers.

Mark Lester Jackson

Mark is a commercial partnership lead for The Petri Dish. He works closely with partners to craft campaigns and collaborations that align their goals with the publication’s engaged, science-minded audience. Drawing on his experience across the media landscape, he understands what makes a message land and how to turn that insight into meaningful partnerships. Dedicated and personable, Mark is committed to expanding The Petri Dish’s commercial reach while helping to champion quality science communication.

Evelyn Low

Evelyn Low is the Head of Operations at The Petri Dish, where she oversees the platform’s operations, strategic partnerships, and business growth initiatives. She works closely with contributors, partners, and the editorial team to ensure ideas are transformed into engaging, credible, and impactful content that reaches a wider audience.
Passionate about connecting science with society, Evelyn believes that research and innovation should be communicated in ways that are easy to understand and relevant to everyday life. Through meaningful collaborations and strategic initiatives, she is committed to helping The Petri Dish become a trusted platform where knowledge inspires conversations, sparks ideas, and creates positive impact across communities.

Khairi Munir

Our Web Developer who is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining responsive and user-friendly websites and web applications for Petri Dish. Develop and optimize frontend and backend functionalities, integrate APIs and third-party services, manage content management systems, and ensure website performance, security, and scalability. Work closely with the design and business teams to translate requirements into effective digital solutions, troubleshoot technical issues, implement new features, and continuously improve the overall user experience and functionality of Petri Dish’s digital platforms.

Mahaletchumy Arujanan

Ts. Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan is one scientist who has opted to be out in the forefront as a science journalist than work with test tubes. She loves engaging with the public and this passion together with her multiple science background has put her in good stead as an effective science communicator. She has a PhD in Science Communication, Masters in Biotechnology and Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology and Biochemistry. Her training provides her with the strong foundation to bring science and biotechnology to the public domain, while her passion connects her with her audience locally and on the international podium. She enjoys her non-routine job and the freedom to try out new communication approaches. Currently she holds court as the Executive Director of the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre and is the Founding Editor-in-Chief of The Petri Dish.

Joseph Masilamany

Joseph Masilamany is a Malaysian journalist, author and poet whose career spans more than three decades. A versatile and deeply curious writer, he covers politics, faith, culture, human rights, the environment, science and the everyday triumphs and struggles of ordinary people. His growing interest in science journalism reflects a particular fascination with the intersection of scientific discovery, society and public life. He seeks to make complex scientific and environmental issues accessible to general readers while exploring their wider human, ethical and social implications. His writing combines journalistic rigour with narrative sensitivity, bringing a human perspective to subjects ranging from biodiversity and climate change to public health, technology and the natural world.

Shekher Balasundram

Shekher is an advertising & partnership lead strategist and he brings a strong media background to The Petri Dish. He leads sales and partnerships for the publication. With years spent understanding how audiences engage with content, he connects brands and organizations with one of the region’s most distinctive science-focused platforms. His focus is on building lasting relationships and creating advertising and sponsorship opportunities that deliver real value for partners while supporting the publication’s mission. Approachable and commercially sharp, Shekher plays a key role in ensuring The Petri Dish continues to grow and reach new readers.

Evelyn Low

Evelyn Low is the Head of Operations at The Petri Dish, where she oversees the platform’s operations, strategic partnerships, and business growth initiatives. She works closely with contributors, partners, and the editorial team to ensure ideas are transformed into engaging, credible, and impactful content that reaches a wider audience.
Passionate about connecting science with society, Evelyn believes that research and innovation should be communicated in ways that are easy to understand and relevant to everyday life. Through meaningful collaborations and strategic initiatives, she is committed to helping The Petri Dish become a trusted platform where knowledge inspires conversations, sparks ideas, and creates positive impact across communities.

Khairi Munir

Our Web Developer who is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining responsive, user-friendly digital platforms for The Petri Dish, a science news and communication portal. Develop and optimize frontend and backend functionalities to support science journalism, editorial content, multimedia publishing, and audience engagement. Manage content management systems, integrate APIs and third-party services, and ensure the platform delivers fast, secure, reliable, and accessible experiences across devices. Work closely with editorial, design, and business teams to translate content and digital requirements into effective technology solutions, troubleshoot technical issues, implement new features, and continuously improve the platform’s performance, usability, and ability to communicate science to a wider audience.

Mark Lester Jackson

Mark is a commercial partnership lead for The Petri Dish. He works closely with partners to craft campaigns and collaborations that align their goals with the publication’s engaged, science-minded audience. Drawing on his experience across the media landscape, he understands what makes a message land and how to turn that insight into meaningful partnerships. Dedicated and personable, Mark is committed to expanding The Petri Dish’s commercial reach while helping to champion quality science communication.

Mahaletchumy Arujanan

Ts. Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan is one scientist who has opted to be out in the forefront as a science journalist than work with test tubes. She loves engaging with the public and this passion together with her multiple science background has put her in good stead as an effective science communicator. She has a PhD in Science Communication, Masters in Biotechnology and Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology and Biochemistry. Her training provides her with the strong foundation to bring science and biotechnology to the public domain, while her passion connects her with her audience locally and on the international podium. She enjoys her non-routine job and the freedom to try out new communication approaches. Currently she holds court as the Executive Director of the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Centre and is the Founding Editor-in-Chief of The Petri Dish.

Joseph Masilamany

Joseph Masilamany is a Malaysian journalist, author and poet whose career spans more than three decades. A versatile and deeply curious writer, he covers politics, faith, culture, human rights, the environment, science and the everyday triumphs and struggles of ordinary people. His growing interest in science journalism reflects a particular fascination with the intersection of scientific discovery, society and public life. He seeks to make complex scientific and environmental issues accessible to general readers while exploring their wider human, ethical and social implications. His writing combines journalistic rigour with narrative sensitivity, bringing a human perspective to subjects ranging from biodiversity and climate change to public health, technology and the natural world.

Shekher Balasundram

Shekher is an advertising & partnership lead strategist and he brings a strong media background to The Petri Dish. He leads sales and partnerships for the publication. With years spent understanding how audiences engage with content, he connects brands and organizations with one of the region’s most distinctive science-focused platforms. His focus is on building lasting relationships and creating advertising and sponsorship opportunities that deliver real value for partners while supporting the publication’s mission. Approachable and commercially sharp, Shekher plays a key role in ensuring The Petri Dish continues to grow and reach new readers.

Evelyn Low

Evelyn Low is the Head of Operations at The Petri Dish, where she oversees the platform’s operations, strategic partnerships, and business growth initiatives. She works closely with contributors, partners, and the editorial team to ensure ideas are transformed into engaging, credible, and impactful content that reaches a wider audience.
Passionate about connecting science with society, Evelyn believes that research and innovation should be communicated in ways that are easy to understand and relevant to everyday life. Through meaningful collaborations and strategic initiatives, she is committed to helping The Petri Dish become a trusted platform where knowledge inspires conversations, sparks ideas, and creates positive impact across communities.

Khairi Munir

Our Web Developer who is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining responsive, user-friendly digital platforms for The Petri Dish, a science news and communication portal. Develop and optimize frontend and backend functionalities to support science journalism, editorial content, multimedia publishing, and audience engagement. Manage content management systems, integrate APIs and third-party services, and ensure the platform delivers fast, secure, reliable, and accessible experiences across devices. Work closely with editorial, design, and business teams to translate content and digital requirements into effective technology solutions, troubleshoot technical issues, implement new features, and continuously improve the platform’s performance, usability, and ability to communicate science to a wider audience.

Mark Lester Jackson

Mark is a commercial partnership lead for The Petri Dish. He works closely with partners to craft campaigns and collaborations that align their goals with the publication’s engaged, science-minded audience. Drawing on his experience across the media landscape, he understands what makes a message land and how to turn that insight into meaningful partnerships. Dedicated and personable, Mark is committed to expanding The Petri Dish’s commercial reach while helping to champion quality science communication.

What People Say

Suman Basnet
Suman Basnet
Regional Director
World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC), Asia-Pacific Nepal
The Petri Dish has been a pioneering force in science communication, and what you’ve achieved — often against the odds — is a true legacy. It is nice to see the website in a new form. All the best.
Prof Dr. Lakshmi Selvaratnam
Prof Dr. Lakshmi Selvaratnam
Professor (Anatomy)
Dept of Human Biology, School of Medicine IMU University
The Petri Dish has been at the forefront of highlighting science & tech news in Malaysia for well over a decade due to unstinting efforts and dedication from the editorial team. The Petri Dish even highlighted education-technology innovations on collaborative learning of healthcare skills, developed by myself and Dr Arkendu Sen. The Petri Dish has also given timely perspectives on advancing STEM education, correcting misinformation and providing schools and universities with a stream of science communication.
Siti Syazwani Mahamad
Siti Syazwani Mahamad
PhD candidate
Biogas engineer
The Petri Dish has been such an inspiring platform that made science communication in Malaysia more accessible. As a postgraduate student who had the privilege to attend Dr Maha’s talk at UPM, I have always admired your dedication to promoting biotechnology and science awareness. Thank you for your immense contribution.
Duke Hipp
Duke Hipp
Managing Director
NarraHarvest Partners
When industry leaders need to know the latest developments across the scientific landscape of Malaysia, the must-read list begins and ends with The Petri Dish. Making business decisions requires actionable intelligence, and The Petri Dish delivers on that front every time.
Dr Angeline Peter
Dr Angeline Peter
Anaesthetist, Ministry of Health, Malaysia
The Petri Dish makes science easier to understand. As a doctor, I value good science communication. But what I particularly appreciate about The Petri Dish is the way it makes science accessible even to young readers. I use stories from The Petri Dish to help my primary-school son, Aaron Jude Balraj, understand science and how it relates to everyday life. The articles are informative without being complicated, and they often turn subjects that may seem difficult into something interesting and easy to discuss. It is wonderful to have a science platform that encourages children to ask questions, understand the world around them and develop an interest in science from an early age. The Petri Dish is not just about science. It helps make science part of everyday conversation — at home, in school and beyond.
Joyce Wong Jin Yi
Joyce Wong Jin Yi
Nutritionist, Founder of Star Dynamics Resources
The Petri Dish is more than a science magazine. It is a platform that makes science accessible, meaningful and relevant to everyone. I am proud to be part of its journey in connecting researchers, inspiring young minds and creating opportunities for collaboration and innovation. What makes it truly special is its commitment to bridging science with society and turning knowledge into impact. A huge well done to the dedicated team behind The Petri Dish for making this vision possible and bringing it to life!
Marilyn Madrod
Marilyn Madrod
Early Child Educator
Children are naturally curious. The Petri Dish gives that curiosity a place to grow. As an early childhood educator, I have learned that children do not need to be experts to become interested in science. They need something that sparks their curiosity. I use The Petri Dish to introduce children to simple scientific ideas and the world around them. Its stories give me useful starting points for conversations about nature, animals, the human body, the environment and everyday things that children encounter. What I like most is that the stories encourage children to ask questions. A simple question from a child can become a wonderful learning experience. Science education should begin long before children enter a science laboratory. It begins when they look at something and ask, “Why?” The Petri Dish helps keep that curiosity alive — and makes science something children can discover, enjoy, and talk about from an early age.

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