KUCHING: STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) education is a key driver in producing a future generation capable of competing globally in line with the rapid development of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Mambong Assemblyman, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, said that STEAM combines logic and creativity to produce individuals capable of designing solutions that are not only functional but also attractive and user-friendly.
“It integrates elements of arts and creativity in solving real-world problems, going beyond simply teaching students to build robots or solve mathematical formulas.
“With the world moving at an unprecedented pace and new technologies reshaping jobs, communication and daily life, it is clear that the nation cannot rely solely on natural resources but must nurture a highly knowledgeable, multi-skilled, and creative human capital,” he said.
He said in his speech read by Puncak Borneo Member of Parliament, Datuk Willie Mongin, when officiating the PPD Padawan STEAM Education Carnival 2025 launching ceremony at Auditorium, Wisma SABATI here today.
He added that individuals who master technology while possessing aesthetic sensitivity are valuable national assets.
“An engineer who understands both technical and artistic aspects can create applications or products that are not only efficient but also designed to be user-friendly. This is the generation we aim to produce,” he said.
Dr Jerip also said that the Ministry of Education (MoE) has set three Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to strengthen STEM and STEAM education by 2025.
“The first KPI is to increase the percentage of students scoring credit in SPM Mathematics, as this subject is the universal language of science and technology.
“The second is to increase enrolment in upper secondary STEM streams, while the third is to raise the level of STEM culture to at least a moderate level,” he said.
He stressed that these KPIs reflect the nation’s aspirations to ensure Malaysian students, especially in Sarawak, acquire the knowledge and skills needed to compete globally.
“We will integrate arts to ensure creativity and innovation grow alongside technical skills.
“This initiative aligns with the Malaysian Development Plan, which emphasises holistic learning, 21st-century skills, and character building,” he said.
He added that students’ interest can be nurtured through creative methods involving real-world projects that impact society, allowing them to see the true value of STEAM in life.
“Teachers are the main agents of change, parents are the strongest supporters, industries are strategic partners, and students are the heirs of the future.
“The nation’s success depends on how far we can produce a generation that is creative, innovative, and inventive,” he added.
