KUCHING – Sarawak is intensifying efforts to strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education as part of its long-term vision to produce future leaders in artificial intelligence (AI) and aerospace.
Deputy Minister of Utilities (Sarawak Energy Berhad and PETROS) and Satok State Assemblyman, Datuk Ibrahim Baki, said the STEM Education Exploration Carnival plays a vital role in exposing students to STEM subjects through interactive and engaging activities.
He stressed that such initiatives are crucial in preparing the younger generation to drive Sarawak’s new economy.
“Activities like this are very important because they provide exposure and opportunities for students to explore the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in a more interactive and fun way,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Satok STEM Education Exploration Carnival 3.0 at SK Combined Hall.
The carnival carried the theme ‘STEM Sparks: Igniting AI and Aerospace Dreams’, which aligns with Sarawak’s broader agenda under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.
The state government is steering Sarawak towards a digital economy, innovation-driven growth and a green economy.
Datuk Ibrahim highlighted that mastery of STEM is increasingly important as AI, semiconductors, robotics and aerospace are expected to be major drivers of Sarawak’s future economy.
He pointed out that Sarawak is no longer just a technology user but is now developing its own intellectual property through SMD Semiconductor, which has successfully produced chip designs.
These innovations are opening up high-income job opportunities for graduates in engineering, computer science, physics and chemistry.
He also noted that Sarawak is paying serious attention to the aerospace sector, including the development of low-Earth orbit satellites to improve internet connectivity in areas with challenging terrain.
Through the Sarawak Space Agency, the state aims to become a regional aerospace hub, advancing satellite technology to support the Internet of Things (IoT), the digital economy and future technological applications.
The chips designed in Sarawak have potential applications in satellite and aviation industries, with possibilities of integration into systems used by global manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing.
Beyond aerospace, satellite technology is expected to benefit agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster management and other digital sectors.
The event was attended by Sarawak Premier’s Political Secretary and Chairman of the Satok Education Bureau Abdul Samad Gany, Kuching North City Hall Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman, and SK Combined Headmaster Muhamad Shaharudin Muhamad Sarip.
Their presence underscored the importance of STEM education in shaping Sarawak’s future workforce.
With initiatives like the STEM Carnival, Sarawak is laying the foundation for a generation of innovators who will lead advancements in AI and aerospace, ensuring the state remains competitive in the global digital economy.
