School-leavers’ declining interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is a concerning trend as Malaysia strives to become an advanced nation. Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang has announced the establishment of a special committee to raise awareness among young people about the significance of science, technology, and innovation (STI). During the STEM Showcase 2023 ceremony at Han Chiang High School in Penang, he emphasized the need for Malaysia to produce enough skilled individuals to meet future demands.
Last year, the Ministry of Education’s data revealed a decrease in the percentage of upper secondary students pursuing STEM from 45.2% in 2017 to 40.9% in 2022. Chang highlighted the importance of a highly-skilled labor force in specific areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, as AI continues to advance globally. He aimed to equip young people with diverse skill sets to tackle the challenges presented by future technologies, ensuring that AI simplifies rather than replaces jobs. Chang stated that AI still relies on manpower for maintenance.
In order to enhance the development of STI in Penang, the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) plans to strengthen its partnership with the region. Chang acknowledged the pivotal role Penang plays in the country’s STI progress. He also mentioned Mosti’s support for Tech Dome Penang’s educational programs and annual exhibitions.
The STEM Showcase 2023, a two-day event, featured various activities such as the Grand STEM Challenge, Mini Rubic Cube 2023 Competition, 3D design competition, Corporate Technology Showcase, Education Booths, STEM Innovations Showcase Excel Hackathon, and more. The primary sponsors of the event were Flex, Intel Technology Sdn Bhd, and Jabil.
The inaugural showcase took place on May 12 and 13 at the UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College in Batu Kawan, attracting 9,000 students. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow reported that between January and June of this year, STEM centers in Penang hosted programs, workshops, and activities for a total of 45,464 primary and secondary school students. To address the shortage of skilled talents, Penang has set a target of training at least 20,000 participants in STEM or technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
Chow expressed gratitude to Mosti, Han Chiang High School, sponsors, and partners for their collaborative efforts in promoting initiatives like the STEM showcase and the National Science Week. He commended the involvement of industry experts in stimulating students’ interest in STEM. At the conclusion of the showcase, Jabil donated two robots worth approximately RM100,000 to Tech Dome Penang, while Flex contributed a high-tech Printed Circuit Board (PCB) component placement machine valued at over RM900,000 (USD200,000).
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo and Mosti secretary-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim were also in attendance, among other notable individuals.
(From left, in blazers) Chang, Jagdeep (partly hidden) and Chow being briefed at the Jabil booth during the STEM Showcase 2023 at Han Chiang High School in Penang. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
