Curtin Malaysia ignites passion for STEM among Miri students

Miri, Sarawak – 15 January 2025 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently ignited excitement and passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through an immersive two-day STEM Outreach Programme for 597 students and 22 teachers from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Agama Miri to its campus.

Held from 6 – 7 January 2024, the programme was organised by Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science in collaboration with its Domestic Students Recruitment team. The initiative aimed to inspire the next generation of innovators and equip them with the foundational skills needed for Malaysia’s technological future.

The event opened with a motivational talk by Dr. Fethma M. Nor, a senior lecturer in mechanical engineering, titled ‘Masa Depan Bermula di Sini: Inspirasi dan Peluang dalam Dunia STEM’. Her talk encouraged the students to explore boundless opportunities in STEM while emphasising its crucial role in addressing Malaysia’s growing demand for a skilled STEM workforce.

The students participated in six hands-on activities, each designed to bring STEM concepts to life. In the Mechatronics session, students explored robotic systems, automation, and control under the guidance of mechanical engineering lecturers Dr. Nurul Amira Mohd. Ramli and Ir. Ts. Abdul Hamid Abdullah. During the Design Thinking session, Dr. Fethma introduced students to real-world problem-solving techniques, fostering creativity and innovation.

The 3D Printing activity, led by mechanical engineering lecturers Dr. Kyaw Myo Aung and lab technician Michael Ding, allowed students to transform their digital designs into tangible creations using cutting-edge 3D printing technology.

In the Biofloc Technology session, experts Dr. Lee Yih Nin and Lirong Yu Abit from the Curtin Aquaculture Research Lab taught the students sustainable aquaculture techniques.

Meanwhile, small-scale Solar Wind Tower models were constructed and tested during a session led by Prof. Ir. Stephanie Chan Yen San from the Chemical and Energy Engineering Department, where the students learned about renewable energy concepts.

Finally, in the Drone Technology activity, certified drone pilot and electrical and computer engineering lecturer Foad Motalebi engaged students in programming and piloting drones, culminating in an exciting drone challenge.

The programme also featured team-building exercises that combined fun with critical learning. The students tested their problem-solving and collaborative skills through activities like the Spaghetti Marshmallow Challenge, where they built the tallest structures using only spaghetti and marshmallows, and the Waterproof Paper Structure Challenge, which involved designing and constructing a newspaper-based structure capable of withstanding water.

Fadhliatun Suhaili, Head of the Science and Mathematics Department at SMK Agama Miri, praised the programme for its thought-provoking content and seamless execution.
“The programme was incredibly well-organised, offering students invaluable exposure to STEM. Curtin Malaysia’s professional and enthusiastic team made the experience both educational and enjoyable,” she said.

The students were equally inspired. Form Four student Ahmad Yahya described the experience as “exciting and packed with valuable knowledge,” while Ariff Putra shared how it opened his eyes to the possibilities of university life and STEM careers.

Curtin Malaysia remains dedicated to fostering STEM education through impactful outreach initiatives. The university believes that such programmes are vital for equipping young minds with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

For more information about Curtin Malaysia and its programmes, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on social media platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Group photo of lecturers, teachers, and Form 4 students

Foad Motalebi conducting Drone Technology session

Students excitedly observing the 3D printing process

The students having fun exploring robotic systems, automation, and control in the Mechatronics session

Students giving presentations from the Waterproof Paper Structure Challenge

Students posing with Curtin Malaysia sign