Film screenings to boost STEM

THE ongoing 13th Science Film Festival (SFF) is an endeavour in promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education among schoolchildren.

With screenings of 41 films scheduled to take place at various locations nationwide until Dec 20, the festival was launched at the Sarawak State Library recently to the theme of ecological restoration, calling for the protection and revival of ecosystems all around the world.

The initiative is a joint effort involving Rolls-Royce, the Goethe-Institut Malaysia, the Education Ministry, the Association of Science, Technology and Innovation (ASTI), and various national and state partners.

As part of the festival, ASTI, together with the Petaling Utama district education office and SMK (P) Taman Petaling, organised a film screening and talk on Nov 1 to promote scientific literacy and awareness of contemporary scientific issues, such as sustainable technologies in aviation.

Rolls-Royce Asia-Pacific Civil Aerospace marketing director Alastair Sim delivered a presentation on “STEM in Aviation” to 150 students from 28 schools in the district.

Rolls-Royce South-East Asia, Pacific and South Korea president Dr Bicky Bhangu said sustainability is inherent to the company’s strategy, and it is committed to advancing STEM education to develop the capabilities of people in the communities and economies where it operates.

“We are delighted to be a partner of the SFF in Malaysia for the second year and to do our part for local communities. We are passionate about raising awareness of sustainability in STEM fields because it benefits all sections of society,” he said in a press release dated Nov 9.

Goethe-Institut Malaysia director Dr Markus Litz said fostering a deeper appreciation for science is an ongoing endeavour.

“As we approach the year 2030, we are honoured to serve as the official supporting partner for the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

“Through heightened awareness, we aim to motivate participants to take immediate action by reevaluating their relationship with the environment,” he said.

This year, the SFF is the official supporting partner of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. The theme is a rallying call for the protection and revival of ecosystems all around the world. For details about the SFF, visit: https://www.goethe.de/ins/my/en/kul/sup/sff.html