KUCHING: Sarawak hopes to nurture the next "Einstein" by encouraging the young generation to explore science, technology and innovation, says Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
The Sarawak Premier said new scientists were needed to make use of the state's resources and come up with solutions to address global challenges such as climate change.
"Sarawak has a lot of resources. Our missing gap - scientists.
"We need young Sarawakians to be equipped with the latest technology and knowledge to make use of the resources that we have," he said when opening the Sarawak Science Centre here on Wednesday (July 29).
Abang Johari said the centre would play an important role in cultivating interest in science.
"This is a milestone for us to encourage our young people to gain awareness and learn what science is all about," the Premier said.
He said the centre was also a place for research and innovation, not only for Sarawak and Malaysia but international partners.
"Come and work together with us for the future of Sarawak, Malaysia and the world " he added.
State Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah said the centre was a space for encouraging curiosity and discovery.
"It will be a living classroom where students can experience science beyond textbooks.
"By nurturing talent at every level, we are laying the foundation for Sarawak’s innovation-driven economy," he said.
Built on a 4ha-site at Jalan Stadium in Petra Jaya, the centre features over 400 interactive exhibits across 22 galleries.
The galleries cover topics including energy and heat, light and sound, electricity and magnetism and the human body.
There is also a dinosaur gallery with an animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex and a Spinosauridae.
Other facilities include five specialised labs, maker spaces and hostels providing accommodation for overnight programmes.
