The Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, through the Department of Chemical Engineering and Energy Sustainability conducted a hands-on STEM outreach programme themed “Exploring Science through Experiments” at Sekolah Kebangsaan Nanga Janan, Song, Kapit on 17 December 2025. The programme was implemented through the UNIMAS Yellowhippo STEM Squad in collaboration with St. John’s Church, Sibu.
The programme emphasized learning through direct experimentation by allowing students to actively engage with scientific concepts in their own school environment. Throughout the programme, students participated in a series of STEM activities which were designed to translate abstract scientific principles into interactive experiences. Additionally, the programme featured series of STEM activities including river water treatment using electrocoagulation system, simple experiment on water surface tension, titration of acid and base, and balloon car race. STEM-based games were also conducted for pre-school students in order to ensure broad participation across age groups.
The Headmaster of SK Nanga Janan, Mr Francis Dana anak Chuat expressed appreciation for the successful implementation of the programme. He noted that the initiative strengthened the school’s STEM education agenda while offering students a learning experience beyond the conventional classroom. The introduction of an “outdoor laboratory” concept at the school was particularly meaningful, given the challenging road conditions and dependence on river transportation to access the area.
According to Dr Nazeri Abdul Rahman, advisor to the UNIMAS Yellowhippo STEM Squad, he explained that the STEM activities were intentionally designed using easily accessible and low-cost materials that do not require sophisticated laboratory equipment. He further emphasized that cultivating students interest and confidence in science and technology remains a key objective of the outreach programme.
The UNIMAS delegation comprised of 10 student volunteers from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Energy Sustainability. The volunteers described the programme as a meaningful learning experience by highlighting the value of direct engagement with students and the rural community. One of the volunteers, Mr Joshua Anyi Ngau, a final year chemical engineering student, shared that the opportunity to interact with learners in a remote setting provided insight beyond conventional academic learning.
During the programme, the UNIMAS team collaborated with representatives from St. John’s Church, Sibu in order to support its smooth implementation. The head of the church delegation, Venerable Archdeacon Jose Jol Endru, explained that the church’s involvement aimed to support educational development in rural schools while strengthening collaboration between the institution and local communities. In the afternoon, the delegation was invited for a community programme at Rumah Philip which received encouraging participation from local residents. Tuai Rumah Philip anak Bagol, who also serves as the Chairman of the SK Nanga Janan Parent-Teacher Association, expressed pride in hosting the programme by noting its positive impact on both the children and rural communities.
Overall, the STEM programme at SK Nanga Kanan achieved its intended objectives along with positive responses from students, teachers, and parents. The school expressed hope that similar initiatives can be sustained in future while serving as a catalyst for broader and high-impact educational programmes in Sarawak rural areas.
Report provided by Dr Nazeri Abdul Rahman