KUCHING: Parents have been urged to actively encourage their children to explore careers in high-growth fields, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah said as the world advances, fields like semiconductors, technology, and other STEM areas are creating tremendous opportunities.
“In this fast-paced and ever-changing world, it is essential that we, as parents, remain informed about emerging industries and the opportunities that will shape the future workforce.
“We need to encourage our children to explore fields that are not only aligned with their interests and passions but also relevant to the demands of the future,” he said.
He said this during the grand finale of the Sarawak Microelectronic Designs (SMD) Integrated Circuit (IC) Design Make-A-Thon held at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus (Swinburne Sarawak) here on Sunday (Nov 3).
Sagah, who is also SMD Semiconductor chairman further said that a career in the semiconductor industry, especially as an IC Design Engineer, offers tremendous potential and demand not only here but worldwide.
“This is a path that can provide stability, growth, and a chance to be part of a globally impactful industry.
“These skills are in high demand, with companies eager to hire talent like our students, highlighting the importance of this field and the opportunities it offers.
“So, parents, let us keep fostering a bright future for our children through STEM education,” he said.
On the SMD IC Design Make-A-Thon which was held across Miri, Sibu and Kuching, he said it is a key part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to STEM education in Sarawak.
“Our goal, as part of the state’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 is to achieve 60 per cent student enrolment in STEM fields by 2030.
“Thus, events like this Make-A-Thon are essential in making STEM education interactive, engaging and fun for students,” he said.
He added through the Make-A-Thon initiative, participants have gained skills beyond technical knowledge like collaboration, critical thinking, innovation and belief in their ability to succeed.
“This competition isn’t just about solving technical challenges; it’s a stepping stone to awareness of the many career paths available in fields like the semiconductor industry,” said Sagah.
Among those present at the event were State Financial Secretary and SMD Board of Director Datuk Seri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar; Special Adviser in the Office of the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Jaul Samion; SMD Semiconductor chief executive officer Shariman Jamil; Sarawak Research and Development Council (SRDC) general manager and SMD Board of Director Dr Peter Morin Nissom; and Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Head of Department for Innovation Dr Cheong Yaw Liang.
