KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus’ Women in STEM Day 2026 brought together around 270 participants from diverse sectors to celebrate the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and inspire the next generation of innovators.
This year’s theme, “Her Voice in STEM: Driving Sustainable Solutions for a Better World”, spotlighted the critical role of women in creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive solutions for society.
Held at Swinburne Sarawak on 5 February 2026, the event gathered policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, university students, and secondary school students. Participating schools included Tunku Putra-HELP School, Chung Hua Middle School No 1, SK (A) Datuk Haji Abdul Kadir Hassan, Borneo International School, and Lodge International School, with additional participation from students of Swinburne Sarawak and other higher education institutions across Kuching and greater Sarawak.
YB Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy binti Shukri, Minister of Women, Family, and Community Development of Malaysia (KPWKM), was represented by Ms Hanani binti Sapit, Director General of the Department of Women’s Development under KPWKM.
In her remarks, Ms Hanani highlighted the government’s support for initiatives empowering women in STEM, while reinforcing the importance of mentorship, leadership training, and professional development opportunities for women across Malaysia.
“The Women’s Leadership Apprenticeship Program (PERANTIS) is cultivating a pipeline of capable, confident, and innovative women leaders who will drive positive change across our nation,” she said.
Among the key highlights of Women in STEM Day 2026 were keynote sessions and Women’s Forum panel discussions, with distinguished speakers sharing invaluable insights and unique perspectives across industry, government, and academia. Discussions explored topics such as green and digital transformation, inclusive leadership, and driving meaningful change across industries and communities.
The event also featured Flash Talk Poster Sessions, which showcased innovative projects by secondary and university students addressing real-world challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of Swinburne Sarawak, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to inclusive and impactful STEM education and research.
He pointed to the Swinburne Sarawak Research Masterplan 2030, which guides high-impact, industry-relevant research aligned with Sarawak’s priorities, including energy transition, digital health, and sustainable environments. He also emphasised the university’s investment in future talent through its Flagship STEM Outreach Program, which engaged over 220 students from 13 secondary schools and inspired the younger generation – especially girls – to pursue STEM pathways.
Professor Dr Ida Fatimawati bt Adi Badiozaman, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) of Swinburne Sarawak, said, “Empowering women in STEM is essential – their leadership drives innovation and sustainable impact.”
She also highlighted the upcoming Industry-University-Community (IUC) Connect Symposium in August 2026, a two-day platform that will convene academics, industry partners, and community stakeholders to develop actionable solutions for real-world challenges facing Sarawak and beyond. The symposium demonstrates Swinburne Sarawak’s commitment to Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and the university’s Research Masterplan 2030.
Women in STEM Day 2026 was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors – the PERANTIS Grant, Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd, SOCOE, Sarawak Energy, and the Women Leadership Foundation – reflecting a shared commitment to advancing women’s leadership, mentorship, and professional development in STEM across Malaysia.
As Chairperson of the event, Ts Dr Lee Sue Han expressed her appreciation to all sponsors, partners, supporters, and participants, underscoring the importance of collaboration in amplifying women’s voices in STEM and fostering innovation, leadership, and sustainable solutions.
The day concluded with the presentation of tokens of appreciation to distinguished guests, recognition of speakers and participants, and the announcement of the Flash Talk Poster Session winners – celebrating the outstanding contributions and achievements of students and mentors alike.
Women in STEM Day 2026 reaffirmed Swinburne Sarawak’s commitment to empowering women as innovators, leaders, and changemakers, inspiring action and the pursuit of sustainable solutions for Malaysia and beyond.
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