Co-curriculum, STEM shape the future generations of Sarawak

MIRI, 1 Oct: Active involvement in co-curricular activities and mastery of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields is essential in shaping the field as well as preparing students for future job needs.

Telang Usan State Assembly (ADUN) member, Dato Dennis Ngau said that the co-curriculum is not just an additional activity in schools but helps to form discipline, leadership, cooperation, resilience and a sense of responsibility among students.

According to him, a student's success should not be measured solely by academic achievement but also includes character, self-esteem, confidence and teamwork ability.

"Academics teach us science, but the co-curriculum teaches us discipline, leadership, cooperation, resilience and responsibility", he said while addressing the 2026 Co-curriculum Excellence and Student Affairs (HEM) Awards Ceremony at Tun Datu Tuanku Haji Bujang College, here today.

He said, STEM mastering is becoming increasingly important in line with Sarawak's economic development which focuses on green technology, renewable energy, digitization, innovation, automation and data-based fields.

He made it clear that students should start thinking about the skills they need for jobs in the next five, 10 to 20 years, rather than just looking at current job opportunities.

"STEM is not just about science, mathematics and technology subjects in school, but about preparing you for jobs and the future of economics", he said.

He added that students also need to master the Malay and English languages in order to strengthen their Mathematics and Science skills as well as build communication and leadership skills.

"Learn hard, master English and Malay, strengthen Maths and Science, master technology, build communication skills and leadership as well as be active in the curriculum", he said.

At the ceremony, 91 students were honored for their outstanding achievements in curriculum and student affairs.