Training programme boosts efforts to modernise classroom teaching in Sarawak

KUCHING (March 24): Efforts to modernise classroom teaching in Sarawak received a boost yesterday with the launch of a four-day Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) and artificial intelligence (AI) training programme at SM Min Lit Batu Kawa here.

The programme marks Sarawak’s first systematic training initiative tailored specifically for teachers of Chinese independent secondary schools, signalling a new phase in local teacher professional development focused on interdisciplinary integration and innovative teaching practices.

School principal Lai Soh Ching said the initiative departs from traditional single-subject teaching approaches by incorporating a wide range of disciplines, including Science and Mathematics, Languages, History and Geography, Art, Computer Studies, and Physical Education.

She stressed that STEAM education is not limited to technology-related subjects, but represents an integrated, inquiry- and practice-oriented teaching philosophy that connects multiple disciplines.

“Through cross-disciplinary collaboration, teachers are encouraged to re-examine curriculum design and move from subject silos to a more cohesive and integrated teaching approach,” she said at the programme’s opening ceremony.

She said explained that the programme aims to help teachers integrate technological elements such as AI, robotics and programming into existing curricula in a meaningful and effective way, rather than turning them into purely “high-tech educators”.

“Applications will focus on simplifying lesson preparation, improving assessment design, supporting differentiated instruction, and increasing student engagement and enjoyment in the classroom.

“This ensures that technology serves as a supportive tool rather than a burden,” she said.

The programme is jointly organised by SM Min Lit Batu Kawa and FAME International College, with participations from teachers of SMK Serian and Chung Hua Middle School No. 3.

The initiative reflects growing inter-school collaboration and resource sharing within the region, with teachers grouped by subject areas and engaged in structured cross-disciplinary tasks to promote dialogue and exchange of ideas.

The school added that locally organised training programmes are more cost-effective and accessible compared to external programmes, while also being better aligned with the teaching context of Chinese independent schools in East Malaysia.

FAME International College chief executive officer David Chew said the college developed a structured, practice-oriented curriculum upon receiving the school’s proposal.

“This programme represents FAME’s first training initiative specifically designed for in-service teachers, marking a departure from the traditional focus on student-oriented programmes.

“Beyond skill acquisition, the programme emphasises collaborative learning across disciplines, encouraging teachers to move beyond conventional teaching frameworks and broaden their perspectives,” he said.

Upon completion, participating teachers will receive certificates endorsed by the college in recognition of their professional development.

SM Min Lit Batu Kawa expressed appreciation to FAME for its support and hopes the programme will strengthen teachers’ competencies through approaches such as Project-Based Learning, the 5E instructional model, and the engineering design process.

It added that the ultimate goal is to produce practical teaching outcomes that can be implemented in classrooms, enhancing overall teaching quality and enriching students’ learning experience.