Curtin STEM Trailblazers event inspires next generation of thinkers and innovators

MIRI: The Curtin STEM Trailblazers 2024 stood out as a beacon of excellence, inspiring the next generation of thinkers and innovators.

The festival’s success highlighted the collaborative efforts of the organisers and participants, reinforcing Curtin Malaysia’s dedication to fostering STEM talent and innovation.

The event coinciding with Curtin Malaysia’s 25th anniversary was held in Miri on July 13, celebrating excellence in Malaysia’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), and attracted thousands of participants.

Over the two days, the university’s Recreation and Event Centre showcased the crucial role of STEM in advancing industries and education.

“A highlight of the event was the awarding of the prestigious STEM Icon Award to Ghia Nyambar, a student from SMK Lutong, for her extraordinary contributions to the STEM field.

“Ghia received a cash reward of RM1,000, reflecting Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to recognising and nurturing young talent,” it said in a press release.

The Curtin EcoTech Marvel Innovator Challenge was another standout feature, celebrating the creativity of educators and students.

E-Croc tech Pro from SK Long Bemang won the Gold Award in the teacher track category, while the FitCharger and AEIOU teams from SMK Merbau secured the Silver and Bronze Awards, respectively.

“The competition also saw intense rivalry in the primary and secondary school tracks. The Go Green Crew from SK Tudan, the Omnisoap team from SK Anchi, and The Legend of New Village team from SK Kampung Baru Bintulu led the primary school category.

“In the secondary school track, the Tech No Logic Team from SMK Lutong took top honours, followed by the Bintulu Hawks from SMK Bintulu and the Planeteers from SMK Chung Hua (CF) Miri. The top three teams in each category received cash prizes and certificates of participation.”

Another notable segment was the ‘Securing Water, Securing Our Future’ workshop challenge, where Kolej Vocational Miri, SMK Pujut, and SMK Baru Miri were recognised for their innovative approaches to water security, each receiving cash prizes and certificates.

The event, organised and funded by the Sarawak Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak (MEITD) and co-hosted by Curtin Malaysia, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, and University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), was a synchronised celebration across Miri, Kuching, and Sibu.

It featured interactive exhibits, demonstrations, workshops, talks, and hands-on activities, captivating participants of all ages.

The festival also featured cutting-edge exhibitions from STEM and tech organisations showcasing the latest breakthroughs and technologies. Curtin Malaysia’s faculties and academic clubs presented over 20 pioneering research projects, while the Curtin EcoTech Marvel Innovator Challenge featured 41 exhibits from schools in Northern Sarawak, demonstrating the region’s growing STEM talent. Complementing these showcases, eight concurrent workshops offered participants hands-on insights into various STEM disciplines.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit www.curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on social media.