SIBU: Students who are provided with the basics of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education will be more adaptable, learn faster and be more efficient in facing the rapid technological changes that are happening today.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, said this when officiating at the Closing Ceremony of the Drone, Robotics, AI and 3D Innovation Boot Camp 2026 at the premises of Pusaka Negeri Sarawak (Pusaka) here on Saturday afternoon.
According to him, the world is witnessing very rapid technological changes, especially in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, which has the potential to replace many conventional jobs in the near future.
“The assumption that AI is not yet able to replace human labour is inaccurate. In fact, this technology is developing much faster than we expected.
“However, the main advantage of humans is the ability to learn and adapt quickly. Therefore, students with a STEM foundation will be more prepared and resilient in facing these changes,” he said.
A total of 60 students participated in the one-day innovation camp organised by the Sarawak E-Platform Digital Media Association in collaboration with the Pusaka Sibu and the Pelawan Constituency Service Centre.
During the programme, participants were exposed to various workshops and technology activities including a drone football competition, sumo wrestling workshop via the Roblox platform, 3D printing and various other innovative technologies.
Tiang, who is also Pelawan assemblyman said early exposure to technology and STEM not only increases students’ interest, but also helps to shape a more creative, innovative and competitive mind.
He also stressed that the Sarawak government is now giving serious emphasis on STEM education through various initiatives such as the establishment of the Sarawak International School, the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), the provision of free education focused on STEM and the strengthening of the Dual Language Programme (DLP) which emphasises Science, Mathematics and English.
“Investing in STEM education is an investment for the future. We want the younger generation of Sarawak to not only be able to compete, but also to obtain high-value jobs that are more secure,” he said.
Meanwhile, he expressed his happiness to see the strong support of parents for their children’s involvement in technology programmes, thus proving that the community’s aspirations are in line with the government’s vision.
Tiang also praised the involvement of Pustaka Sibu in providing the camp venue and appreciated the initiative of the organiser in providing a meaningful learning platform for the younger generation.
He hoped that more such programmes could be organised in the future to ensure that students, especially in Sibu, are not left behind and continue to be prepared to face a future driven by AI, robotics and advanced technology.
Deputy regional manager of Pustaka Sibu Shahrieza Rabaie, secretary of the Sarawak E-Platform Digital Media Association Wesley Lee and chief technology officer of U Best Youbisheng Sdn Bhd Elton Wong were among those present.
