Drone classrooms could be key to Malaysia’s STEM push, says science minister

TANJONG MALIM, June 14 — Drone technology has unique advantages that can attract students to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang said.

He said a more interactive and engaging drone-based learning approach could help make STEM subjects more accessible to students while encouraging them to explore science and technology-related knowledge.

“The launch of the drone room at SJKT Ladang Katoyang is an initiative that brings together collaboration among all stakeholders, including industry players, the government, the community and educational institutions.

“This is a model that we believe can succeed in developing STEM, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) and STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading/Writing, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) talents among young people, making them more interested in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and related fields,” he told reporters after officiating the STEM Room at SJKT Ladang Katoyang here today.

Although drones are often seen as an appealing and accessible technology for students, their use actually involves a wide range of STEM-related skills, including coding, artificial intelligence (AI), engineering and data analysis, he added.

“Through drones, students can directly observe how technology is applied in smart agriculture, search and rescue operations, disaster management and air transportation.

“Early exposure to drone technology is important in preparing the younger generation for the rapid growth of the industry, which is expected to require a larger skilled workforce in the future,” he said.

He added that drone technology education could also pave the way for high-income professional careers in the increasingly important industry.

In a separate development, Chang said the govt recognises the importance of solar energy in addressing the global energy crisis, but noted that it cannot serve as the country’s primary source of electricity supply due to its dependence on weather conditions and sunlight availability.

“Therefore, we also need to explore alternatives beyond solar because it cannot function as a baseload energy source.

“At present, natural gas and coal serve as the baseload sources. In the future, we will explore other options such as hydropower, geothermal energy and nuclear power,” he said. — Bernama