KOTA SAMARAHAN: Some 137 secondary students from across Kuching, Kota Samarahan and Serian converged at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) for the Scienceploration 2025.
The one-day programme held yesterday (May 24) was aimed at sparking interest and expanding exposure to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
Organised by the university’s Centre for Pre-University Studies (PPPU), the event also featured hands-on activities designed to inspire critical thinking, curiosity and innovation.
Among the participating schools were SMK Agama Sheikh Hj Othman Abd Wahab (SHOAW), Sekolah Menengah Sains Kuching Utara (SAKURA), LODGE International School, Kolej Datu Patinggi Abang Haji Abdillah, SMK Agama Matang 2, SMK Hajjah Laila Taib, SMK Wira Penrissen, SMK Balai Ringin, SMK Saint Joseph, SMK Green Road, SMK Kota Samarahan, SMK Dato Mohd Musa, SMK Tun Ahmad Zaidi (TUNAZ) and SMK Bandar Samariang.
UNIMAS vice chancellor Professor Dr Fitri Suraya Mohamad Hapni Joblie, who officiated at the closing ceremony, pointed out the importance of STEM in shaping the nation’s development
“STEM is not just for high-performing students, but for everyone. The world today needs
scientists, engineers, programmers, and inventors from all walks of life.
“Thus, Scienceploration is a platform to develop critical thinking, self-confidence, and a strong sense of curiosity,” she said.
Echoing this sentiment, PPPU director Dr Mohd Alhafiizh Zailani said early exposure to STEM was vital in preparing students for the future.
“Science is the process of understanding the universe, technology is the application of knowledge, engineering is the solution to problems, and mathematics is its language.
“Today’s students are the engineers and scientists of tomorrow, and Scienceploration gives them the space to experiment, fail, and succeed,” he staid.
Meanwhile, participants took part in a variety of engaging activities including Free Fall Motion, Math Playground, Chromatography in Daily Life, Anaerobic Respiration Process, Steganography, and a video montage presentation.
The programme was also held in collaboration with Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS), Incredible Hearts PLT, Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak, Sarawak PETCHEM Sdn Bhd, Musyati Sdn Bhd and the Sarawak Islamic Council.
