Curtin Malaysia hosts spectacular STEM Trailblazers 2024 in Miri

Miri, Sarawak – 17 July 2024 – In a grand celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) excellence, Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) wrapped up the highly anticipated STEM Trailblazers 2024 event in Miri on 13 July 2024.

This innovation festival, held for the second year and coinciding with Curtin Malaysia’s 25th anniversary, saw the university’s Recreation & Event Centre being thronged by several thousand primary and secondary school students, industry representatives and exhibitors, and members of the public over the two days, showcasing STEM’s crucial role in advancing industries and education.

A standout moment of the event was the awarding of the prestigious STEM Icon Award to Ghia Anak Nyambar, a student from SMK Lutong. Ghia’s extraordinary contributions to the STEM field earned her a cash reward of RM1,000, highlighting Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to recognising and nurturing young talent.

The iconic Curtin EcoTech Marvel Innovator Challenge was the main highlight, showcasing the creativity of educators and students alike. E-Croc tech Pro from SK Long Bemang claimed the Gold Award in the teacher track category, while the FitCharger and AEIOU teams from SMK Merbau secured the Silver and Bronze Awards, respectively.

The competition also featured fierce rivalry in the primary and secondary school tracks, with the Go Green Crew from SK Tudan, the Omnisoap team from SK Anchi, and The Legend of New Village team from SK Kampung Baru Bintulu leading the primary school category. In the secondary school track, the Tech No Logic Team from SMK Lutong took top honours, followed by the Bintulu Hawks from SMK Bintulu, and the Planeteers from SMK Chung Hua (CF) Miri.

The top three teams in each if the categories received cash prizes and certificates of participation.

Another notable segment was the ‘Securing Water, Securing Our Future’ workshop challenge, where Kolej Vocational Miri, SMK Pujut, and SMK Baru Miri were recognised for their innovative approaches to water security, each receiving cash prizes and certificates.

The event, organised and funded by the Sarawak Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak (MEITD), and co-hosted by Curtin Malaysia, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, and University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), was a synchronised celebration across Miri, Kuching and Sibu. It captivated participants of all ages with interactive exhibits, demonstrations, workshops, talks, and hands-on activities.

Curtin Malaysia’s STEM Trailblazers 2024 event stood out as a beacon of excellence, inspiring the next generation of thinkers and innovators. The event’s success was a testament to the collaborative efforts of the organisers and participants, reinforcing Curtin Malaysia’s dedication to fostering STEM talent and innovation.

The festival also featured cutting-edge exhibitions from STEM and tech organisations, showcasing the latest breakthroughs and technologies. In addition,

Curtin Malaysia’s faculties and academic clubs presented over 20 pioneering research projects, while the Curtin EcoTech Marvel Innovator Challenge featured 41 exhibits from schools in Northern Sarawak, demonstrating the region’s growing STEM talent. Complementing these showcases, eight concurrent workshops offered participants hands-on insights into various STEM disciplines.

Information on Curtin Malaysia can be found on its website at curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof Vincent Lee presenting STEM Icon Award to Ghia

(Seated from right) Prof Garenth Lim, Assoc Prof Fidella Tiew, Prof Lee; Prof Tuong-Thuy Vu, Assoc Prof Bridgid Chin with organisers and students

Prof Garenth Lim guiding students during the Sun Power Workshop and Challenge

Prof Vu posing with Go Green Crew from SK Tudan, winners of the Primary School Track

Students enjoying interactive sessions offering various activities