Swinburne Sarawak champions inclusive STEM education, research

KUCHING (Feb 6): Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus is strengthening its role in strengthening inclusive and impactful science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and research through strategic initiatives aligned with Sarawak’s development priorities.

Its pro vice-chancellor and chief executive officer Professor Lau Hieng Ho said the university’s commitment is anchored by the Swinburne Sarawak Research Masterplan 2030, launched in 2025, which provides a clear direction for impactful industry-relevant research.

“Our focus areas, including energy transition, digital health, sustainable environments and the digital circular economy demonstrate our belief that STEM plays a central role in shaping a resilient and sustainable future,” he said during the university’s Women in STEM Day 2026 at the campus here.

He noted that the event, themed ‘Her Voice in STEM: Driving Sustainable Solutions for a Better World’, coincided with the International Day of Women and Girls in Science observed globally on Feb 11, underscoring the importance of ensuring STEM fields remain inclusive, equitable and accessible to all.

“Recognised by the United Nations, this observance highlights both the progress made and the challenges that remain.

“It encourages institutions and communities worldwide to remove barriers, expand access, and create environments where women and girls can participate fully, lead confidently, and innovate boldly in STEM,” he said.

Lau said Swinburne Sarawak is also investing heavily in nurturing future talent through its Flagship STEM Outreach Programme, which has engaged more than 220 students from 13 secondary schools through hands-on learning experiences designed to spark curiosity and build confidence, and nurture future innovators.

“These initiatives reflect our commitment to widening participation and inspiring young people, especially girls, to see STEM as a space where they belong and can thrive.

“Our students continue to demonstrate the impact of this approach,” he said.

Lau added that students have shown how creativity and STEM knowledge can be applied to real-world challenges, citing achievements in areas such as sustainable tourism, digital media and design excellence.

Together with nearly 300 graduates who completed their studies last year, he said, they represent a pipeline of talent ready to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

“These milestones reinforce a core belief at Swinburne Sarawak: education and research must translate into positive impact for individuals, communities and the broader region,” he said.

Lau said Women in STEM Day 2026 brought together 270 participants, reflecting a strong and connected STEM ecosystem spanning schools, higher education institutions and industry.

At the school level, 75 students from five institutions took part, while 40 participants from five universities and training institutions represented the tertiary level.

“We are also especially honoured to be joined by 69 representatives from 23 industry and public-sector organisations spanning energy, digital technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, culture, tourism and social development.

“Their participation underscores the critical role of academia-industry collaboration in translating STEM knowledge into real-world impact and sustainable solutions,” he said.

Women in STEM Day 2026 was officiated by Department of Women’s Development director general Hanani Sapit, representing Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri.

Among the highlights of the event were keynote sessions and panel discussions, featuring speakers from industry, government and academia, who shared insights on green and digital transformation, inclusive leadership, and driving meaningful change across industries and communities.

The event also featured flash talk poster sessions showcasing innovative projects by secondary and university students addressing real-world challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).