MIRI: Hundreds of secondary school students in Sibu got a taste of how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) can shape their future when Curtin University Malaysia brought its dynamic outreach programme to town.
The series of workshops, held at SMK Chung Hua, SMK Methodist, and Woodlands International School, were led by Sibu-born academic and engineer Dr Yong Leong Kong from Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science.
Blending energetic talks with hands-on activities, Yong captured the imagination of students by showing how innovation and engineering are at the heart of Sarawak’s transformation story. From green energy and artificial intelligence to digital manufacturing and smart city development, he explained how home-grown talent can drive the state’s ambitions forward.
“Engineers are not just implementers of technology; they are the cornerstone of Sarawak’s economic transformation and social progress,” said Dr Yong. “We need more young Sarawakians to step up and lead projects like the Baleh Hydroelectric Dam and our growing green energy agenda.”
The students got to put theory into practice with a buoyancy design challenge, testing their creativity and problem-solving skills. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as groups brainstormed, built prototypes, and learned from real engineering principles.
Many participants said the workshop opened their eyes to the vast possibilities of STEM-related careers. Some admitted it was their first time realising how engineering could directly impact the community and environment.
“It was fun and eye-opening. I never knew engineering could be this creative,” said one SMK Methodist student.
The initiative comes at a time when Sarawak is making a bold move in education. Starting in 2026, the state government will offer free higher education for Sarawakians pursuing degrees in critical sectors such as engineering, computer science, law, healthcare, and finance. The policy aims to strengthen Sarawak’s talent pool and empower more young people to pursue professional qualifications without financial barriers.
As Curtin University’s largest global campus and a key institution owned by the Sarawak government, Curtin Malaysia plays a central role in nurturing this next generation of talent. Its Faculty of Engineering offers a broad range of accredited programmes – from Civil and Construction to Mechatronics, Chemical, and Energy Engineering – all designed to blend theory with real-world practice.
Yong said the workshops are part of Curtin Malaysia’s broader outreach strategy to inspire future engineers and scientists from all corners of Sarawak.
“It’s about giving students a glimpse of what’s possible. If they can see themselves as innovators and problem-solvers, we’ve already achieved something meaningful,” he added.
Students and parents eager to learn more about Curtin Malaysia’s programmes can visit www.curtin.edu.my or contact the Admissions Office at +60 85-630 100 for details.
For updates and stories, follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.
