BAU: The inaugural Sculp & Robo Challenge 1.0 held here was hailed as a significant step forward in empowering Sarawakian youth through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
Deputy Transport Minister (Riverine and Marine), Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, emphasised the importance of such platform in preparing the younger generation for the challenges of the future.
He added that strong participation in the competition was a positive indicator of a growing enthusiasm among students for the STEM and TVET fields.
“It is very encouraging to witness the passion and interest shown by students and youth. This reflects a promising future for Sarawak in producing a generation ready to innovate and lead in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“Your dedication and hard work are key drivers behind today’s success. This initiative clearly reflects the state government’s serious commitment to strengthening the future of our students and youth by cultivating interest in STEM and TVET,” he said at the closing of the event organised by Kolej Komuniti Mas Gading and Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) here on Saturday.
“To the winners, congratulations. To those who did not win, this is not the end, but the beginning of a greater journey.
“I encourage all participants to remain engaged, explore collaboration opportunities, and continue innovating for the betterment of themselves and society,” said Henry who is Tasik Biru Assemblyman.
He also expressed hope that the Sculp & Robo Challenge 1.0 would serve as a stepping stone for more similar initiatives in the future, particularly in Bau and across the state.
Meanwhile, Kolej Komuniti Mas Gading Director, Khalid Husseine Tuah, said the inaugural Sculp & Robo Challenge 1.0 received an overwhelming response from secondary schools and higher learning institutions across the state.
The competition featured two main categories, ‘Line Following Robot Competition’ (participated by 13 teams from institutions of higher learning and 12 teams from secondary schools) and ‘Sculpture Design Competition’ (participated by seven teams from institutions of higher learning and eight teams from secondary schools).
“The Sculp & Robo Challenge was not just a competition but a learning platform that encouraged participants to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world problem-solving scenarios.
“By integrating STEM knowledge with hands-on creativity, the programme promoted teamwork, communication, and innovation,” he said.
He added, the event also aimed to nurture research and innovation talent in engineering, science and design while fostering practical skills.
“As AI and digital technologies rapidly transform industries, Sarawak is aligning its education system with these advancements to remain competitive globally,” he said.
