Preparing for future scientists and leaders

KUCHING: Primary school students showcasing projects on hydrogen and Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) exemplify a promising young generation on the rise.

Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki said that the young generation present are the potential generations of future scientists and leaders.

“For example, they showcase hydrogen and CCUS; primary school students in primary 3 and 4 are already adept at explaining these concepts to us.

”This is what the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg desired – intelligent and creative young generation.

”Only Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) can change the way we think – innovative, creative and inventive. This aligns with our state’s development,” he said during his address.

Ibrahim was officiating at the Satok Education Exploration Carnival 2024 at SK Merpati Jepang here on Saturday (June 29).

Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki (left) and others listen to primary schoolers in Satok present what they learned about Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) at the Satok Education Exploratiom Carnival 2024 at Sk Merpati Jepang, Kuching. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni

Ibrahim (third left) and others take a look at carbon capture process flow display model while being briefed by a student. Photo: Mohd Alif Noni

He then said due to hydrogen and CCUS initiatives focusing on energy, Sarawak aims to transition from traditional to high-end economic opportunities. 

“With abundant energy resources from hydroelectric dams such as Bakun, Murum, Trusan, energy plays a crucial role in this transformation,” he said.

Stressing further, Ibrahim said that STEM education is crucial for Sarawak government’s policy to prepare children for current developments and boost the state’s economy.

“The world economy is changing, no longer relying solely on traditional economies, moving towards digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI).

“Everything is digital and AI; that is the way forward, when programmes are conducted (and) they align with our policy to provide exposure which ensures that they are passionate about STEM learning,” he said.

Ibrahim also praised SK Merpati Jepang and its management committee for hosting the event and laying the foundation for the next generation.

”Today’s event is done on a grand scale, it’s not easy to organise, according to the headmaster, 2,000 people attended which is truly significant,” he said.