JOHOR BAHRU, Aug 5 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), in collaboration with the Faculty of Education and Technology Sciences (FEST), successfully organized an impactful outreach program titled “Cilik STEM Xplore UTM.” This initiative aimed to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among primary school students in Johor. The one-day event was held in partnership with Syota Edulife Sdn. Bhd., the Johor Bahru Business Network Association (MyBiz), and the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association (MACMA) Johor Chapter.

A total of 50 Year 6 students from Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (Cina) (SJK(C)) Foon Yew 1 and SJK(C) Foon Yew 5 participated in a program accompanied by four teachers and three representatives from MACMA, PERKIM, and Syota Edulife. The program included a motivational talk, hands-on STEM activities, and a campus tour, all designed to nurture confidence, curiosity, and future aspirations.

One of the highlights of the day was an engaging drone simulation and flight experience led by Ts. Dr. Jaysuman Pusppanathan, a drone expert and senior lecturer from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering (FKE) at UTM. This activity took place in the drone labs at the Sports Innovation & Technology Centre (SITC), UTM, with assistance from UTM undergraduate students using the eDroneRival module.

The students participated in four STEM modules designed by Dr. Norulhuda Ismail and Dr. Siti Najihah Jamal, both lecturers from the Department of Innovative Science and Mathematics at FEST UTM. The module, titled “Cilik STEM,” includes four engaging activities: Rocket Rempah, Aeroplane Making, Helicopter Racing, and Reflective Art. These hands-on modules allowed students to explore fundamental STEM concepts in a fun and interactive way, fostering problem-solving skills, collaboration, and creative thinking among young learners.

The program also features a STEM motivational talk by Dr. Kew Si Na, a Senior Lecturer at the Language Academy, Faculty of Social Science and Humanities (FSSH) at UTM. She is also a member of the Young Scientist Network – Academy of Sciences Malaysia. Dr. Kew, an accomplished researcher and recipient of national awards, shared her inspiring journey and discussed how STEM can change the world and the importance of lifelong learning.

During the opening ceremony, Professor Dr. Noraffandy Yahaya, the Dean of FEST, stated, “STEM is not just a subject; it’s a way of thinking and solving real-world problems. We hope that today’s program opens the minds of young learners and motivates them to dream beyond the classroom.” He also emphasized that FEST UTM welcomes collaboration with external partners, such as Syota Edulife Sdn. Bhd., to enhance STEM education in Johor and Malaysia.

During the ceremony, Professor Noraffandy presented tokens of appreciation to the key partners of the program. The recipients included Lim Kian Soon, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Syota Edulife Sdn. Bhd.; Ong Teng Koon, President of MyBiz; Mohd Shaiful Bahri Choo, President of MACMA Johor; Ong Chin Hock, Headmaster of SJK(C) Foon Yew 1; and Lee Siew Think, Headmistress of SJK(C) Foon Yew 5.

Voices from Partners: Cultivating Dreams, Not Just Knowledge

“Children today are growing up surrounded by social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube. While these platforms can be entertaining, we believe it is more valuable to provide them with their first genuine exposure to university life — right here at a local university,” said Lim Kian Soon, COO of Syota Edulife.

“Many students from SJK(C) backgrounds dream of attending university but are often unsure how to achieve this goal. Today’s experience helps bridge that dream with reality and encourages them to aspire to higher education.”

Ong Teng Koon, President of MyBiz, shared similar views: “Social media often creates a fantasy about university life. However, today, these children are able to experience it firsthand. This direct exposure can inspire them to pursue further education and develop a clearer vision of their future.”

Mohd Shaiful Bahri Choo, President of MACMA Johor, added, “UTM and other local universities are just as capable as those abroad. It’s important for our children to experience this environment in person rather than just hearing about it. We hope for more initiatives like this that help students build their academic ambitions right here in Malaysia.”

The Cilik STEM Xplore UTM program demonstrates UTM’s ongoing commitment to nurturing future generations through community engagement, STEM empowerment, and strong collaboration among universities, industries, communities, and schools. STEM education is no longer the sole responsibility of universities and schools; it is essential for industry and the community to join forces in addressing challenges in STEM education as part of a national agenda.

By: Prof. Dr. Fatin Aliah Phang Abdullah & Dr. Nina Diana Nawi, Faculty of Educational Science and Technology, UTM