BETONG: The overwhelming response to the Sarawak Science Centre, which attracted around 3,000 visitors within two days of its opening, shows that the Sarawak government’s efforts to cultivate interest among the younger generation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are beginning to bear fruit.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the attendance of students accompanied by their parents reflected growing public awareness that knowledge and technology are crucial foundations in shaping Sarawak’s future.
“In just two days, 3,000 people visited the Sarawak Science Centre. Most of them were students, but more importantly, parents also came together with their children.
“Based on the reports I received, parents were also helping to explain the exhibits to their children. That is our objective — to create awareness on the importance of science and technology,” he said when officiating at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Special Convention for Betong Zone Convention 2026 here on Saturday.
He said the centre was developed as an interactive learning platform to allow students to understand the real-world applications of the knowledge they learn in classrooms.
Abang Johari said teachers and students, including those from rural areas, could also benefit from the hostel facilities provided, allowing them to participate in educational visits to the centre.
“I have also met with rural school principals. They can bring students to the Sarawak Science Centre to see for themselves the practical applications of what they learn in school, and they can stay at the hostel facilities provided.
“From the era of dinosaurs to the latest technologies, including aerospace, everything is showcased there. All of this is part of our preparation as we aim to launch Sarawak’s nano satellite by 2030,” he said.
He said strengthening STEM education is in line with the Sarawak government’s policy of providing free higher education at state-owned institutions to produce more skilled manpower in high-technology fields.
Abang Johari said although free higher education was never promised in any election manifesto, Sarawak implemented the initiative once its financial position allowed it, as the state viewed investment in education as the most important investment for its future.
“We never promised free higher education in our manifesto. But when state revenue increased and we were able to do so, we invested in education.
“This year alone, we have allocated RM260 million to fund the higher education of Sarawak students at state-owned universities, and this commitment will continue every year.
“We want to produce a knowledgeable generation because without knowledge, it will be difficult for us to develop Sarawak and face a new technology-driven economy,” he stressed.
