KUCHING: More than 10,000 participants, mainly students from rural communities, are expected to benefit from a series of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programmes across Sarawak as the state strengthens its efforts to build a future-ready talent pipeline.
Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, said the initiatives are designed to support students from their earliest years in school through to higher education and professional careers.
“Our efforts begin in the classroom. Sarawak is leading the nation through the full implementation of the Dual Language Programme (DLP), enabling our pupils to learn science and mathematics in English.
“This is important because English remains the language of international research, technology and global commerce.
“By developing confidence in these subjects from Primary One, our students are better equipped to compete and succeed in an increasingly knowledge-driven world,” he said when officiating at the opening of the MOSTI National Science Week (MSN) Carnival Sarawak Zone held at the Sarawak Science Centre here today.
Sagah said the state’s STEM development strategy extends beyond schools through initiatives such as STEM Trailblazers, STEM Catalyst, the provision of computers, improved internet connectivity for schools, research opportunities through the Sarawak Research and Development Council (SRDC) BrightSpark Grant, and the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES).
He acknowledged that improving internet connectivity in rural schools remains one of the state’s biggest challenges but said the government continues to work towards ensuring students have equitable access to digital learning opportunities.
“We are investing in every stage of our young people’s journey towards STEM excellence,” he said.
Sagah added that under the FTES, eligible Sarawakian students pursuing undergraduate studies at state-owned higher education institutions will have their tuition fees fully funded by the Sarawak Government, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent capable students from pursuing STEM-related fields.
He said the outreach programmes, jointly organised with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), will include the STEM Trailblazers programme in Kuching, Miri and Sibu, as well as the STEM Catalyst Roadshow to schools in Marudi, Bintulu and Belaga.
“The majority of the more than 10,000 participants expected to take part in these programmes will be students from rural communities,” he said.
Sagah said the opening of the Sarawak Science Centre marks a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to strengthening STEM literacy, enhancing STEM competencies and inspiring greater interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics among Sarawakians.
He also commended the close collaboration between the Sarawak Government and MOSTI, saying the partnership has enabled the creation of engaging, interactive and modern learning opportunities that will benefit visitors and students of all ages.
Sagah urged them to pursue careers in science and technology to help drive Sarawak’s future development, encouraging students to seize any available opportunities.
“Remember that the future belongs to those who are willing to learn, explore and innovate.
“You have every opportunity to pursue your dreams and contribute to Sarawak’s future and Malaysia as a whole,” he said.
