Well-equipped STEM labs handed over to SK St Elizabeth Tijirak under Gift of STEM Education

SIBURAN (March 5): The Gift of STEM Education 2025 programme marked the successful handover of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) laboratory equipment at SK St Elizabeth Tijirak here.

Building on its 2024 model, the programme has now expanded to the Serian division and aims to strengthen Science and Mathematics education through well-equipped STEM laboratories.

With four laboratories now established — in Kuching at SJK(C) Bintawa and SK St Andrew, and in Serian at SK St Peter and SK St Elizabeth Tijirak — organisers reaffirmed their commitment to providing equitable and quality STEM education opportunities for young learners in Sarawak.

The initiative is a collaboration between Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak, the Rotary Club of Kuching Central, and industry partner T&J Engineering Sdn Bhd, with support from the Sarawak State Education Department, the Serian and Kuching District Education Offices, school leaders, teachers, and the Invention and Design Association of Sarawak (IDEAS).

The handover ceremony was officiated by state Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who emphasised the importance of well-equipped STEM laboratories in nurturing critical thinking and innovation among students.

“Such facilities help students visualise abstract concepts, learn through exploration and experimentation, and apply classroom knowledge to real-world problem-solving,” he said in a speech.

Also present were UiTM Sarawak rector Prof Dr Firdaus Abdullah, T&J Engineering chief executive officer Dato Thomas Ngu Sing Hieng, representatives of the Rotary Club of Kuching Central, education officials, headmasters, teachers, and members of the school community.

Firdaus highlighted that the laboratories are designed as active learning spaces where students can explore scientific concepts, apply mathematical reasoning, and develop problem-solving skills through collaborative and hands-on activities.

Meanwhile, Ngu said the initiative forms part of the Rotary Club’s corporate social responsibility efforts to support grassroots education with plans for similar programmes in the future.

The Gift of STEM Education programme also includes innovative training sessions for Science and Mathematics teachers and a one-day motivational camp for students.

Organisers believe the laboratories will enhance active learning, improve academic outcomes, and inspire greater interest in STEM, which is an essential foundation for the future development of Sarawak and Malaysia.