BARAM: More than 700 students here participated in hands-on science and technology activities during the STEM Catalyst & Jubilee Joy: A Celebration of Innovation and Heritage programme.
Held at SMK Long Lama, the programme marked a milestone in Sarawak’s efforts to cultivate interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among rural schoolchildren.
It is part of the broader STEM Catalysts Raspberry Pi 2025 initiative, jointly implemented by Sarawak Skills and the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), with Sarawak-based tech firm SOCOE Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (SOCOE) taking the lead industry partner role.
The programme aims to reach over 6,000 Primary 5 and 6 pupils from more than 130 rural schools across Sarawak, making it one of the most extensive STEM outreach initiatives in the state.
Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who officiated the event, said the initiative was critical for building a strong foundation for Sarawak’s future.
“Sarawak’s future depends on how well we prepare our children today. This programme plants the seeds of innovation, creativity, and critical thinking among our young minds, particularly in rural areas,” he said.
The event featured STEM workshops, robotics demonstrations, and technology showcases aligned with Sarawak’s push toward a hydrogen-driven economy.
Students explored real-world applications such as electrolysis, fuel cell operations, ammonia production, and sensor integration, exposing them to the science behind renewable energy technologies.
Six schools participated namely SMK Long Lama, SMK Tinjar, SJKC Kee Tee, SK Ubong Imang, SK Long Lapok, and SK Sungai Bain.
SOCOE’s involvement through its CSR arm, SOCOE Kasih, underscores the firm’s commitment to inclusive technology education.
“Empowering young talents in Sarawak’s communities — whether urban or rural — through science and technology is crucial for the region’s long-term sustainable growth. When rural youth are equipped with the right tools, they don’t just adapt to the future — they help shape it,” said a SOCOE spokeperson.
The event also included contributions from Curtin University Malaysia, Hornbill Foundation’s ‘No Kids Left Behind’, and Persatuan Kebajikan Rolf Schnyder’s ‘KIDS: Bits and Bytes’, further enriching the learning experience.
