SMK Luar Bandar Miri students dive into STEM at Curtin Malaysia’s STEM Carnival and Mathematics Workshop

Miri, Sarawak – 26 August 2024 – Over 1,200 eager students at SMK Luar Bandar Miri were recently treated to a dynamic STEM Carnival and Mathematics Workshop, where science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) came alive through hands-on activities and expert-led sessions.

The event, spearheaded by the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Student Section of Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) and supported by the university’s IEM Young Engineers Section (IEM-YES) members and SuCCESS mentors, showcased a unique collaboration aimed at sparking students’ interest in STEM fields. Curtin Malaysia’s Community Engagement with Secondary Schools (SuCCESS) programme — an initiative by its School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE) – continues to provide invaluable guidance and mentorship to local students.

The participating students were captivated by six diverse STEM projects ranging from hydropower generation and gear ratio demonstrations to launching water rockets and creating volcanic eruptions. Among the highlights were bridge-building challenges and a multidirectional Mars rover, all designed to connect classroom learning with practical, real-world applications. The hands-on exhibits provided a powerful platform for students to see how fundamental STEM concepts influence daily life.

Jameson Malang, a key driving force behind the event, served as the advisor of the IEM Student Section and is also a teaching fellow at Curtin Malaysia. His role, coupled with the presence of key figures like Young Engineers Section (YES)-IEM Miri Branch Honorary Treasurer Lim Chuan Jet and co-advisor Dr. Evelyn Chiong, underscored the significance of this outreach initiative.

Running concurrently with the carnival was a Mathematics Workshop for 100 Form 4 students, facilitated by Associate Professor Jobrun Nandong from Curtin Malaysia’s Chemical and Energy Engineering Department. His engaging talk on ‘Mathematics and Real-world Problems’ set the stage for a practical session led by nine teaching fellows and five student mentors from SPACE. The workshop offered students valuable insights into SPM Mathematics through real-world problem-solving scenarios.

Dr. Evelyn Chiong, who played an active role in the workshop, emphasised the importance of a strong foundation in mathematics. “Mathematics is an essential skill that permeates everyday life, whether you’re buying goods or constructing a building. Events like this empower students to appreciate and apply these concepts in meaningful ways,” she said.

The event received high praise from teachers at SMK Luar Bandar Miri, including event coordinators Eliane Choo Yuan Syn and Imelda Anak Baran. They expressed gratitude for Curtin Malaysia’s dedication to bringing STEM education to rural communities and for the enthusiastic engagement shown by their students.

“This carnival gave our rural students a rare chance to experience STEM beyond their textbooks,” remarked Jameson. “We hope the exposure to these engaging activities, led by both university lecturers and students, will inspire them to pursue studies and careers in STEM fields.”

The success of the event reinforces Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to nurturing a love for STEM and advancing educational development in the community, ensuring that the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers can emerge from every corner of society.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

SMK Luar Bandar Miri students actively engaged in STEM activities

Group photo of mentors and lecturers with students after the Mathematics Workshop

Dr. Evelyn Chiong engaging students during the Mathematics Workshop

Launching the water rocket, the highlight of the STEM Carnival

Students excitedly watch a demonstration of a volcanic eruption