JOHOR BAHRU, Apr 27 – As robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly redefine global industries, Malaysia continues to grapple with a pressing issue: declining student interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), currently at only 40%, well below the national target of 60%. To address this challenge, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering (FKE), in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) (JTNCPI), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and the Johor State Education Department (JPNJ) launched a bold Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative Robotics for All (RFA). This initiative is led by Prof. Ir. Dr. Zaharuddin Mohamed and his dedicated RFA team, comprising 16 academic staff members from the FKE.
This initiative aims to reignite students’ curiosity in STEM through hands-on learning in robotics and AI. The first module was rolled out across 12 selected secondary schools in Johor, involving 216 Form 2 and Form 3 students from Pontian, Johor Bahru, Kulai, and Pasir Gudang districts. The selected schools were Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Pekan Nanas, SMK Dato’ Mohd Yunos Sulaiman, SMK Taman Molek, SMK Dato’ Penggawa Timur, SMK Kangkar Pulai, SMK Pulai Jaya, SMK Mutiara Rini, SMK Damai Jaya, SMK Seri Pulai Perdana, SMK Senai, SMK Tanjung Adang, and SMK Taman Tun Aminah.
To promote innovative learning in classrooms, 72 custom-built robot kits, known as RFABOT, were distributed to the schools. These kits enabled students to actively engage in hands-on activities involving the development and programming of the robots. These activities were facilitated by 24 UTM undergraduate students from the Mechatronics, Biomedical, and Electronics Engineering programs at FKE, who played a pivotal role in delivering the modules and mentoring school students throughout the program. The facilitators were thoroughly trained by the RFA team, guided by our dedicated technical experts, and with strong support from the management team. Their combined expertise and mentorship were instrumental in ensuring the success of the RFA program.
The RFA initiative is structured into two stages with six progressive modules. Modules 1 to 3, implemented in 2025, focus on core robotics knowledge and skills. Modules 4 to 6, scheduled for 2026, will delve into the integration of artificial intelligence in robotics, allowing students to explore machine learning, vision systems, and intelligent control in real-world contexts. Only top-performing teams from each school will advance to these higher-level modules, adding a competitive and aspirational dimension.
At each stage, a flagship robotics competition will be hosted at UTM, serving as the highlight of the RFA initiative to foster creativity, teamwork, and innovation. Looking ahead, the program aims to expand in its second year (2026) by incorporating an additional 12 schools, specifically targeting those that are just starting to engage in robotics activities. This expansion reflects a commitment to inclusivity and a broader reach in cultivating Malaysia’s future STEM talent.
To assess the effectiveness of the RFA program for continuous quality improvement, a pre-survey was distributed to students to gauge their exposure to STEM-related activities. The results revealed that 57% of students had never participated in any robotics programs, 77% had no prior experience with AI-related activities, and 36% reported the non-existence of a robotics club. These findings highlight the significant gaps in access to and opportunities for STEM learning across Johor. However, post-survey feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Students reported a growing enthusiasm for science and engineering careers, with many eager to continue learning through hands-on projects. The survey results clearly show that exposure to practical, engaging STEM experiences can have a transformative impact on students’ interest and career aspirations.
By embedding robotics and AI education in schools, the RFA program seeks not only to spark short-term interest but to cultivate a sustained culture of innovation among Malaysian youth. With continued support from educational institutions, dedicated faculty, and government agencies, the initiative is poised to shape a new generation of problem solvers, inventors, and tech leaders. As Malaysia positions itself for a digital future, programs like RFA are essential catalysts. By making STEM education exciting, inclusive, and relevant, this initiative lights the path forward—one robot at a time.