Abstract This study aimed to explore the implementation of digital inquiry-based science learning in a rural primary school classroom in Melaka, Malaysia. The participants were eight Year 4 pupils (10–11 years old). Using a classroom action research approach, the study utilized two action research cycles using the bscs 5E Instructional Model to create lesson plans. The study’s findings reveal that effective digital inquiry-based science learning development in primary schools requires activities that align with and harness pupils’ prior knowledge, cross-curricular applications, differentiated learning, inquiry scaffolding, technological scaffolding, pupils’ technological skills, independent learning, learning by doing, and the opportunity to make connections, express ideas and report discoveries. The study illustrates that digital inquiry-based science learning is well-suited for practice in primary schools, enhancing both teachers’ pedagogical approaches and pupils’ conceptual understanding.