SIBU: Sarawak is ambitiously aiming to become a high-income and developed economy by 2030, with a central focus on developing a robust Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) ecosystem.
Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the initiative seeks to empower youth with the knowledge, skills, and passion needed to drive innovation, technological advancement, and sustainable growth.
“Concerns have been raised about the insufficient number of graduates with STEM skills, which could potentially impact industrial and economic growth in Malaysia.
“To address this challenge, we must intensify our efforts to promote STEM education and inspire more students to pursue careers in these critical STEM-related fields,” he said.
He was speaking at the STEM Trailblazers Sarawak 2024 programme at Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud Chancellor Hall at the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) here, today.
He said that in line with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD) has set a target to achieve 60 per cent enrolment in pure science.
“To realise this vision, my ministry has spearheaded a comprehensive strategy to embed STEM education in every facet of our learning landscape while working closely with the federal Ministry of Education in promoting STEM education across Sarawak,” he said.
Recognising the importance of English in STEM fields, Sagah said his ministry also focuses on improving English language proficiency among students, which is crucial for accessing global resources.
“We are also committed to creating conducive learning environments by providing resources, infrastructure, and support to schools. For example, our common science lab.
“This is a key initiative to address the issue of insufficient laboratory facilities, especially in rural areas, and in urban schools across the state which are not equipped with labs,” he said.
He stressed that by providing modern and functional lab spaces, his ministry seeks to enhance the overall learning experience for students, creating a deeper understanding and appreciation of science.
“The common science labs are expected to be equipped with modern scientific instruments and apparatus, enabling students to conduct a wide range of experiments and investigations.
“This initiative will bridge the gap in science education between urban and rural schools, ignite curiosity, improve practical skills, and prepare students for the Industrial Revolution (IR) 4.0 workforce,” he added.
Sagah also said that apart from investing heavily in teacher training and professional development by equipping educators with the tools and knowledge they need to inspire and engage students in STEM subjects, MEITD is also committed to preparing the Sarawak Science Centre, which is set to open in 2026.
Also present were Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, UTS Vice Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Khairuddin Abdul Hamid, MEITD permanent secretary Adana Jed and Deputy Resident of Sibu Christopher Ranggau Unting
