Empowering Minds: Jom Belajar Arduino Inspires Next Gen in STEM

Shalominy Phang

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 14 – The UTM Off-Campus Student Committee [Jawatankuasa Mahasiswa Pelajar Luar Kampus] (JKM PLK) proudly organised Jom Belajar Arduino, a STEM education programme designed to ignite curiosity and inspire a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among Standard 4 and 5 students. Held at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Padang Tembak 2, the half-day event aimed to empower young minds with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in Arduino and electronics.

Focus — Students mingled around whilst waiting for the programme to begin.

Recognising the critical need to address the declining interest in STEM education, the programme organisers sought the collaboration of Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Kuala Lumpur Student Branch to demonstrate how STEM principles can be applied to real-world challenges, cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills among participants. The event offered a variety of engaging activities, beginning with educational talks that introduced students to the basics of electronics and Arduino programming. Expert speakers made complex concepts accessible and exciting through topics such as ‘Introduction to Electronics’, ‘Electronic Controlling Devices’, and ‘Arduino Simulation Using Tinkercad’. Students then participated in practical hands-on sessions where they assembled and programmed Arduino kits, transforming theoretical knowledge into tangible results. A short quiz further reinforced learning, and the most enthusiastic and knowledgeable students were recognised with special prizes. As a lasting contribution, the organising committee donated five Arduino kits to the school, ensuring that future students could also benefit from the resources provided.

IEEE UTMKL — IEEE UTM Kuala Lumpur Student Branch collaborators who were speakers for the programme

The event was graced by the presence of notable individuals, including the Off-Campus Students’ Principal, Dr. Mohamed Azlan Suhot, and Programme Advisor, Mohamad Firdaus Majid. Their inspiring speeches underscored the importance of early exposure to STEM fields and highlighted how such initiatives prepare students for the demands of the future.

SK Padang Tembak 2 Teacher — Norhayati Mohd Yusof from SK Padang Tembak 2 gave a few words before the commencement of the programme.

Through its dynamic activities, Jom Belajar Arduino not only enriched students’ understanding of STEM but also addressed key challenges, such as dismantling the stereotypes that STEM is “too difficult” or “only for certain groups.” By providing a welcoming and inclusive environment, the programme encouraged participants to view STEM as both enjoyable and achievable.

Volunteer facilitator assisted students in assembling the Arduino kits.

The impact of this initiative extends far beyond the classroom. By cultivating an early interest in STEM, the programme has the potential to inspire a new generation of problem-solvers and innovators who will contribute to advancements in their communities and beyond. It also strengthens the surrounding community, as these students grow into future leaders equipped to address local and global challenges with technological and scientific solutions.

Prize Giving — Shazwan, a speaker, presented a gift to one of the attentive students who answered a question.

In conclusion, Jom Belajar Arduino was successfully conducted, leaving a lasting impression on its participants and the community. This programme not only sparked an early passion for STEM in young minds but also provided practical tools for their future exploration. It is hoped that this initiative will inspire similar efforts to advance STEM education in Malaysia and beyond, building a legacy of knowledge, curiosity, and innovation for generations to come.