DARO: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) continues to be recognised as one of the key drivers of future development for the state and nation, underscoring the need for sustained efforts to ensure more students, particularly in rural areas, receive proper exposure to the field.
Daro Assemblyman Dr Safiee Ahmad said the development of highly skilled human capital in STEM fields not only enhances graduate employability, but also supports Sarawak’s aspirations towards a digital and high-technology economy.
“The Sarawak Government remains committed to strengthening the education sector through various initiatives, including the provision of complete learning facilities and the implementation of high-impact programmes such as STEM Catalysts to produce a competent and competitive future generation,” he said.
He said this when officiating the STEM Catalysts 2026 Programme at the hall of SMK Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Normah, here on Thursday.
The programme, organised by the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak (MEITD) in collaboration with University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) and the school, aims to raise awareness, motivation and interest among students to pursue STEM-related fields.
At the same time, he said the government is also placing emphasis on education infrastructure development in Daro through the implementation of an additional building project at the school.
According to him, the RM31.51 million project commenced on 13 March 2026 and is expected to be fully completed on 12 March 2028.
The project includes the construction of a laboratory block, classrooms, workshops for the Special Education Integration Programme (PPKI), special rooms, a multipurpose hall, field upgrading works, additional parking spaces, as well as furniture and equipment in line with current standards.
At the same event, Dr Safiee also officiated the handover of several completed projects under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP).
These include the upgrading of the school hall costing RM150,000, surau upgrading works worth RM200,000, and repair works on Jalan Susur Gajah costing RM70,000, all of which will directly benefit the school community and the locals.
In addition, he announced another RTP allocation of RM100,000 for the continuation of repair works on Jalan Susur Gajah to be implemented this year as part of ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure in the area.
To strengthen community involvement in education, Dr Safiee also presented financial contributions totalling RM36,000 to six Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) of primary schools in Daro, with each association receiving RM6,000.
Also present were Principal of SMK Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Normah Pauline Charles Lemi, Assistant Director of the Learning Sector at the Sarawak State Education Department Michelle Lim Chia Wun, MEITD Assistant Secretary Wong Li Ching, MEITD Research Officer Dr Faustina Sangok, UTS lecturer and Co-Chairman of STEM Catalysts 2026 Dr Elton Wong Kee Sheng, as well as SISC+ Officer of the Daro District Education Office Zulfadli Seddek. -UKASnews
