Where is the love

INTEREST in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) has been declining in Malaysia and this does not bode well for a country trying to gain developed nation status.

Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) senior fellow, academician Datuk Dr Aini Ideris said interest in STEM among students has been waning and this is a cause for concern, especially with the emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) and a growing demand for talent in STEM-related fields.

She said she understands the concern all too well as she has seen the trend firsthand.

“Every year, we see fewer applications than there are places in science-related programmes in universities,” the International Medical University (IMU) pro-chancellor told StarEdu.National STEM Association president and founder Prof Datuk Dr Noraini Idris said STEM is a key component of thriving in the digital age.

She said developed nations like the United Kingdom and France are already living in the digital age with their electric cars, contactless services and healthcare.

“STEM is the engine of growth for innovation because we are now in the digital world,” she said, adding that a mindset shift has to happen so that the country does not get left behind.

“Malaysians really must enhance STEM education from the primary school level to create a workforce ‘ready’ with that knowledge,” she said.The Education Ministry’s 2020 Annual Report highlighted that Malaysia’s annual tertiary education enrolment in STEM courses was 47.18%.

Last October, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister (Mosti) Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba said the percentage of students taking STEM needs to be increased to the government’s target of 60% to ensure the country has an adequate supply of STEM talent.

“Mosti is concerned about the percentage of students in STEM because STEM talent will be the catalyst for the development of a country.

“Today, all countries are racing to produce new science and technology that is sustainable, affordable and safe in line with the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations which is to be achieved by 2030,” he said when speaking at the finals of the National Science Challenge (NSC) 2021 for the YAB Prime Minister’s Challenge trophy which was held virtually on October 9.