Seberang perai: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, along with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), must be prioritized to cultivate talent capable of developing technology and driving future innovation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) secretary-general, Datuk Dr. Aminuddin Hassim, emphasized the importance of this initiative due to the rapid advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), smart automation, cloud computing, and cyber security. He highlighted that technology is now a primary driver of economic growth, productivity, job creation, and national competitiveness. Strengthening STEM education and TVET is essential to produce talent that not only adapts to technology but also creates and leads future innovation.
Aminuddin reiterated MOHE's commitment to enhancing TVET as a crucial element of national development, aligning with the Malaysian Higher Education Blueprint 2025-2030, which focuses on fostering future talent through innovation, digitalization, sustainability, and strategic industry collaboration. He underscored the role of polytechnics and community colleges (POLYCC) in producing graduates with technical, digital, and soft skills, while promoting innovation. TVET has transitioned from being a secondary choice to a mainstream education pathway, proving its capability to generate skilled professionals meeting global industry demands.
Aminuddin further described the 2026 Polytechnic and Community College STEM Innovation and Exploration Carnival (KIES@POLYCC) as more than just a competition or exhibition. It serves as an interactive learning platform offering participants hands-on experience in science, technology, and innovation. The carnival's activities and competitions not only test technical skills but also enhance participants' communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, which are vital in the workplace.
The event, KIES@POLYCC 2026, highlighted the active participation of school students and POLYCC members, demonstrating the necessity of fostering an innovation culture from an early age. The event attracted 1,020 students from 28 primary and 22 secondary schools in Penang, alongside participants from 20 POLYCC institutions nationwide and 59 international participants from three educational institutions in Indonesia. The one-day carnival featured 14 activities and competitions focused on AI, robotics, drones, coding, 3D printing, engineering, and innovation. It also showcased Global AI Innotech 2026 in collaboration with GOTT Sdn Bhd, including events such as the Robotech Challenge, Drone Gaming Quiz, Robot Soccer Championship, Drone Obstacle Soccer Challenge, 3D Design and Printing, and AI Robotics.