Sarawak builds holistic education ecosystem to drive STEM agenda, says Sagah
MIRI (July 18): Sarawak is building a comprehensive education ecosystem that nurtures talent from primary to tertiary levels, where every student becomes a part of the state's story in STEM education agenda, said State Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
He said his ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to making Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education accessible, relevant, and inspiring for all students, regardless of their background.
Sagah made the remarks during the officiating of the two-day 'Sarawak STEM Trailblazers 2025' at Curtin University Malaysia here today.
'This is not just an event. It is the beginning of a larger journey, one where every student is encouraged to dream big, build boldly, and become a part of Sarawak's story in STEM,' he said.
With 157 teams applying for this year's event – far exceeding the initial target of 91, Sagah described the overwhelming response as a testament to the growing passion for STEM education among Sarawakian youths.
The minister also outlined several key initiatives currently being implemented under the Ministry to strengthen Sarawak's STEM education agenda.
One such programme is 'STEM Catalyst', a touring carnival that delivers hands-on STEM learning experiences to over 130 schools statewide.
The programme has so far reached over 6,000 primary pupils, using Raspberry Pi kits and interactive demonstrations to transform classrooms into innovation hubs and ignite pupils' interest in technology.
Additionally, the Sarawak Education Enhancement Programme (SEEP) continues to provide free tuition for Form 3 and Form 5 students.
This initiative supports academic performance, particularly in STEM-related subjects, by giving students access to additional learning resources.
Another major programme is the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), scheduled to begin in 2026.
'These efforts are more than just academic success – they are about opening doors and providing equal opportunities for all children to succeed in the knowledge economy,' Sagah emphasised.
He also noted that STEM Trailblazers play a key role in the Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), aiming to transform Sarawak into a talent-and-innovation-driven economy.
The minister called on all stakeholders to sustain the momentum of this initiative by ensuring continued support, deeper partnerships, and long-term investment in education.
'Let STEM Trailblazers be the spark. Together, let's build Sarawak into a hub of knowledge, talent and innovation,' he said.
Present at the event were Sagah's Deputy Minister, Datuk Francis Harden Hollis; Sarawak Education Department (School Management Sector) Deputy Director Dr Les Mat; the ministry's Head of Innovation Dr Cheong Yaw Liang; and Curtin Malaysia Pro Vice Chancellor, President cum Chief Executive, Professor Dr Vincent Lee. education Roland Sagah STEM Trailblazers 2025
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