KUCHING: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) hosted its first ‘Raya Bersama AI’ programme, bringing together secondary school students, university undergraduates, and artificial intelligence (AI) experts to explore emerging technologies in a hands-on learning environment.
The initiative is a collaboration between UNIMAS, the Sarawak AI Centre and Sarawak-born AI firm NEUON AI, aimed at preparing students for a future in technology-driven industries.
Participating schools included Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School, SMK Muara Tuang, SMK Penrissen No. 1, SMK Agama Tun Ahmad Zaidi and SMK Pesantren Abdul Taib Mahmud.
Speaking on behalf of UNIMAS Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr Wan Hashim Wan Ibrahim highlighted the programme’s dual focus on innovation and community engagement.
“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world industry application.
“We want all students to realise that breakthrough ideas for tomorrow don’t have to come from Silicon Valley; they can begin right here in Sarawak,” he said.
UNIMAS undergraduates acted as trainers, mentoring students through hands-on AI sessions.
Wan Hashim added that the programme builds on a train-the-trainer session held the day before, where lecturers and undergraduates deepened their understanding of data models.
“Today, you will explore its body and senses through hardware and IoT applications,” he said.
NEUON AI’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Chai Kok Chin also emphasised the programme’s experiential learning approach.
“With the support of our teachers and collaborators, we are able to give back to students in a meaningful way,” he said.
Chai added that the knowledge gained can be channelled to help the next generation think critically and creatively about AI.
Sarawak AI Centre’s Director, Professor Dr Patrick Then highlighted the initiative’s role in positioning Sarawak as a leader in AI development.
“This programme is an important step in developing AI-ready graduates and fostering innovation across the state,” he said, adding that it supports both local talent development and policy alignment for a sustainable digital ecosystem.
Hands-on activities included programming exercises, AI simulations, and demonstrations of real-world applications.
Students were guided through practical experiments while learning how AI can be deployed across sectors such as infrastructure, environmental management, and public services.
Wan Hashim encouraged students to stay curious and bold, reminding them to turn their interest in AI into practical knowledge.
He highlighted that the day’s activities were designed to give participants hands-on experience, applying AI concepts to real-world problems under the guidance of international and local experts.
