Engineering can solve Sabah's challenges
Ir Ts Tan KJ, FIEM, JP
Engineering has long been the cornerstone of national development — solving water supply problems, driving infrastructure, energy systems, transportation, and technological advancements. In Sabah, a state rich in natural resources and cultural diversity, engineering talent is pivotal to realizing the aspirations of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan, which aims to foster a competitive, sustainable and inclusive economy.
However, recent trends indicate a decline in the number of students enrolling in engineering programs in Sabah. Factors such as limited awareness, perceived difficulty of the field, lack of industry exposure, and shifting career interests contribute to this downturn. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and professional bodies like the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch.
Let us delve into the root causes of the declining interest in engineering among Sabah's youth, outlines strategic measures to rekindle enthusiasm for the field, and highlights the initiatives undertaken by IEM Sabah to cultivate a new generation of engineers.
Understanding the Decline in Engineering Interest
1. Perceived Complexity and Lack of Creativity
Engineering is often perceived as a challenging discipline, heavily reliant on mathematics and physics, which may deter students who view themselves as less proficient in these areas. Additionally, the misconception that engineering lacks creativity further diminishes its appeal to students seeking innovative and dynamic career paths.
2. Limited Exposure to Engineering Role Models
Many students in Sabah grow up without direct exposure to engineers or understanding the tangible impact of engineering on their communities. The absence of relatable role models in the field makes it difficult for students to envision themselves pursuing engineering careers.
3. Disconnect Between Curriculum and Real-World Applications
The current science and mathematics curricula in schools often fail to demonstrate how theoretical concepts apply to real-world problems. This disconnect can lead to a lack of appreciation for the practical value of engineering, resulting in diminished interest among students.
4. Emergence of Alternative Career Paths
The rise of digital content creation, e-commerce, and entrepreneurship presents alternative career options that appear more accessible and immediately rewarding. These emerging fields often overshadow traditional disciplines like engineering in the eyes of the youth.
The Critical Role of Engineering in Sabah's Development
Despite shifting career preferences, engineering remains integral to Sabah's socio-economic transformation. From renewable energy projects in Kudat to smart water management systems in Kota Belud, engineers are essential in addressing the state's infrastructural and environmental challenges.
Engineering aligns closely with the three thrusts of the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan:
1. Agriculture, Industry, and Tourism (Thrust 1): Engineering drives innovation in agriculture through automated irrigation and smart farming technologies, enhances manufacturing with industrialized building systems (IBS), and supports tourism infrastructure development.
2. Human Capital Development (Thrust 2): A robust pipeline of engineers contributes to high-skilled job creation, reducing youth unemployment and fostering economic growth.
3. Green Sustainability and Climate Resilience (Thrust 3): Engineers play a pivotal role in renewable energy initiatives, waste management, and flood mitigation efforts, addressing key environmental concerns in Sabah.
Strategic Measures to Attract More Students into Engineering
To reverse the declining trend in engineering enrolment, a multifaceted approach is necessary, encompassing curriculum reform, policy advocacy, early exposure, scholarships, and industry partnerships.
1. Engineering Immersion in Secondary Schools Implement state-wide 'Engineering Awareness Weeks' in collaboration with polytechnics, universities and engineering firms. Activities should include: • Hands-on Workshops: Engage students in projects like Arduino programming, drone design, 3D printing, and renewable energy simulations. • Industry Visits: Organize tours of construction sites, hydroelectric plants, and engineering laboratories to provide real-world insights. • Problem-Solving Challenges: Host interschool competitions where students develop solutions to community issues, such as flood alert systems or solar-powered irrigation.
For example, the 'Young Engineers of Sabah' competition can be held annually at district and state levels to foster interest and innovation.
2. Integration of Engineering Concepts into the Curriculum Collaborate with the Ministry of Education to incorporate engineering fundamentals as electives in Form 4 and Form 5 science streams. Proposed modules include: • Design Thinking and Systems Engineering: Encourage creative problem-solving and holistic understanding of complex systems. • Sustainable Design and Basic Robotics: Introduce students to environmentally conscious engineering practices and automation technologies.
• Teacher Training: Equip science and math teachers with the skills to facilitate engineering projects, such as constructing model bridges or programming basic microcontrollers.
3. Engineering Role Model Outreach
Launch a 'Sabah Engineering Ambassadors' program, where local and international engineers visit schools to share their experiences and mentor students. Emphasize diversity by featuring female engineers, professionals from rural backgrounds, and those working in emerging fields like green energy and smart cities.
4. Government-Sponsored Engineering Bootcamps
Organize holiday bootcamps in partnership with institutions like Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Politeknik Kota Kinabalu, ILP and industry partners such as the Public Works Department (JKR) or Sabah Electricity (SE). Focus areas can include civil structures, electrical circuits, mechanical systems, and environmental engineering. Offer free admission for students from low-income families and provide incentives like internship placements for top participants.
5. Engineering Scholarships with Return-of-Service Agreements
Expand state-funded scholarships specifically for engineering degrees, offering full tuition coverage and monthly allowances. Implement return-of-service schemes where graduates commit to working in public agencies or rural infrastructure projects for a specified period. Create specialized tracks for students interested in high-impact sectors like sustainable energy and rural development.
IEM Sabah's Initiatives to Cultivate Future Engineers
The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch plays a crucial role in nurturing engineering talent through various programs and collaborations.
1. STEM Outreach Programs
IEM Sabah conducts STEM outreach initiatives in schools to inspire future engineers. These programs aim to spark interest in engineering by demonstrating its relevance and impact on society.
2. Young Engineers Section (YES)
The Young Engineers Section under IEM Sabah provides a platform for young professionals to engage in mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities. YES organizes technical talks, workshops, and community service projects to enhance the skills and knowledge of aspiring engineers.
3. Scholarships and Financial Aid IEM offers several scholarships to support students pursuing engineering degrees, including: • Presidential Scholarship • TT Chiam Scholarship • SEGi – IEM Scholarship • Ir. Thean Lip Thong Scholarship
These scholarships aim to alleviate financial burdens and encourage more students to enter the engineering field.
4. Industry Collaboration and Career Development
IEM Sabah connects students with potential employers by organizing career fairs and industry networking events. These initiatives bridge the gap between education and employment, providing students with insights into the engineering profession and potential career paths.
5. Community Engagement and Rural Outreach
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, IEM Sabah plans to launch a Rural Engineering Outreach program. This initiative aims to extend engineering education and awareness to rural communities, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to opportunities in the field.
Policy Recommendations for the Sabah State Government
To further support the development of engineering talent in Sabah, the state government should consider the following policy measures: 1. Establish an Engineering Talent Development Task Force Create an inter-agency task force comprising representatives from the State Ministry of Education and Innovation, JKR, UMS, local engineering associations, and relevant NGOs. The task force would: • Assess the current engineering education pipeline in Sabah. • Coordinate exposure programs across districts.
• Integrate youth training components into SMJ-aligned infrastructure projects.
2. Incorporate Engineering into the SMJ Flagship Agenda Position engineering development as a flagship pillar within the SMJ roadmap, similar to agriculture and tourism. Initiatives could include: • Developing an 'Engineer Sabah 2030' blueprint with targets for producing a specified number of homegrown engineers annually. • Linking engineering education with major SMJ projects like the Pan Borneo Highway and renewable energy initiatives.
• Establishing industry-academic-government consortiums to co-develop engineering curricula aligned with Sabah's development needs.
3. Expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Pathways Introduce a TVET-to-degree pathway for students, particularly from rural areas, who may not immediately qualify for university. This pathway would involve: • Starting with diploma or certificate programs at vocational colleges. • Progressing to degree programs at institutions like UMS or Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL).
• Providing mentoring, bridging modules in math and science, and guaranteed progression for students who meet performance criteria.
4. Enhance STEM Infrastructure in Rural Schools Allocate SMJ funds to equip rural schools with: • Mini engineering labs featuring tools like Arduino kits, LEGO robotics, and water pump models. • High-speed internet access for engineering simulations and virtual labs.
• Partnerships with NGOs to train teachers and facilitate workshops.
5. Launch a Public Campaign: 'Build Sabah. Be an Engineer.' Develop a comprehensive public campaign to elevate the profile of engineering as a profession. Utilize social media, television advertisements, and school posters to: • Depict engineers solving real-world problems in Sabah. • Highlight diverse profiles of engineers, including young, female, and rural professionals.
• Share compelling narratives that showcase the impact of engineering on daily life.
Conclusion
Building a Progressive Future Through Engineering
Engineering is more than a profession; it is a catalyst for innovation, problem-solving, and societal transformation. To ensure Sabah's continued progress under the Sabah Maju Jaya vision, it is imperative to rekindle interest in engineering among the youth.
Through collaborative efforts involving educational reform, grassroots outreach, financial support, and a renewed narrative around engineering, Sabah can cultivate a new generation of engineers poised to build, design, and sustain a better future for the state.
Let us not merely admire innovation from afar but foster it within our communities. Let the next bridge, building, or renewable energy project carry not just concrete and steel but the aspirations and dreams of Sabah's young engineers.
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Tan Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the dengue virus (DENV), has remained one of the most pressing public health threats, particularly in tropical urban centers like Kota Kinabalu areas in Sabah. Transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, dengue infections continue to escalate despite years of government-led interventions such as fogging, larviciding, and public health education. While these strategies have played a role in limiting outbreaks, a persistent and frequently overlooked factor continues to undermine control efforts: the household environment. The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) has formulated guidelines on the prevention and control of dengue for households to form a critical frontline in the war against dengue. Understanding and addressing the factors that allow mosquitoes to breed within and around homes is key to breaking the cycle of transmission. The Aedes aegypti mosquito has evolved to thrive in human-made environments. 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The most effective weapon against them is not fogging or chemical treatment, but source reduction — the elimination of breeding grounds. In this context, the household becomes both a risk and a solution. Most mosquito breeding occurs within a 100-meter radius of human activity. Studies conducted in Malaysian cities have shown that more than 50% of breeding sites are located within domestic settings, where household water containers, improperly managed waste, and poor drainage systems create ideal conditions. This reality highlights the critical need for residential-level interventions. The IEM Guidelines recommend that each household adopt a systematic and technical approach to prevent mosquito breeding. One of the most effective and simple measures is the weekly 10-minute inspection. Residents are advised to dedicate ten minutes each week to checking both inside and outside their homes for stagnant water. 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Additionally, rainwater harvesting systems should be designed with self-draining features, overflow outlets, and flush systems to prevent water stagnation in gutters, downpipes, and filtration components. Where sealing is not practical, safe biological larvicides such as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) may be applied periodically. Roof gutter systems represent another hidden danger. Improperly installed or poorly maintained gutters trap organic matter such as leaves and silt, leading to blocked drains and water accumulation after rainfall. Slopes that are too shallow or absent of overflow mechanisms exacerbate this issue. According to the IEM, gutters should be cleaned at least monthly, and ideally be fitted with leaf guards, inspection ports, and anti-mosquito mesh over drain outlets. Any system collecting roof water should be designed with adequate fall gradient to ensure efficient flow and prevent pooling. 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The guidelines recommend that recyclables be punctured and dried before storage and always kept under cover. Homes should also undertake regular decluttering, particularly in outdoor areas and balconies. Community recycling centers and municipal contractors should support proper collection and disposal to reduce container waste exposure. While engineering solutions and technical recommendations form the backbone of prevention, behavioral change is what ensures their sustainability. Dengue prevention should become part of the household's weekly routine, alongside tasks such as sweeping or taking out the trash. Children should be taught to report stagnant water or mosquito sightings, while household helpers or tenants must be equally informed. Awareness campaigns rooted in WHO's COMBI (Communication for Behavioural Impact) model stress the importance of not just knowledge but habit formation. Posters, fridge magnets, and weekly SMS alerts have been successfully deployed in various localities to serve as reminders. When a suspected dengue case arises in a household, immediate containment is essential. The infected person should always sleep under a mosquito net, including daytime, to avoid being bitten by Aedes mosquitoes, which could then spread the virus. Simultaneously, the household should undergo a detailed inspection, not only of the patient's room but the entire compound. Neighbors must be alerted, and the local vector control unit — such as the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) should be notified to conduct fogging or larviciding in the vicinity. In this effort, stakeholder collaboration is indispensable. Homeowners, property managers, developers and municipal authorities must work together to address shared spaces and structural risks. Developers have a responsibility to incorporate mosquito-resistant design in new housing schemes. This includes proper landscaping to avoid water retention, the use of permeable pavements, well-graded drainage systems, and the installation of sealed water tanks and inspection-accessible gutters. For high-rise or gated communities, property managers must schedule quarterly inspections of rooftop water tanks, basements and sump pits. Maintenance logs should be maintained and subject to health inspections. Local authorities play a crucial role in enforcement and education. DBKK (Kota Kinabalu City Hall) and related councils must uphold existing health by-laws that prohibit the harboring of mosquito breeding sites. This can include issuing compound fines or warnings to households found in violation during routine checks. Equally important is the provision of public education materials in multiple languages to reach all segments of the population, including migrant workers and the elderly. Sabah's unique climatic and demographic conditions further intensify the need for household-level dengue resilience. The state's equatorial rainfall patterns and hot temperatures create year-round breeding conditions, while many residents live in low-density housing with access to outdoor space — increasing exposure to container habitats. During the monsoon season, when rain is frequent and intense, mosquito populations can surge rapidly, outpacing fogging efforts. Therefore, household preparation and maintenance must be intensified before, during, and after seasonal peaks. Historical data from Kota Kinabalu district show that dengue outbreaks have occurred in predictable cycles, often corresponding to periods of sustained rainfall and stagnation of preventive efforts. The National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC) has noted that case clusters frequently originate from residential areas where multiple breeding sites are found within proximity. In one notable case in Kota Kinabalu district in 2022, over 60% of the breeding sites were traced to household premises, despite weekly fogging efforts in public spaces. This highlights the irreplaceable role of domestic source control. In conclusion, household-level dengue control is not merely an auxiliary component of vector management — it is the foundation upon which all other strategies rest. Engineering controls, environmental design, behavioral adaptation and policy enforcement must converge at the household level to sustainably reduce dengue transmission. The IEM Guidelines offer a scientifically grounded and practically implementable framework for empowering households to play a leading role in mosquito control. In a rapidly urbanizing city like Kota Kinabalu where human activity constantly reshapes the environment, household vigilance, maintenance discipline, and structural design must evolve in parallel. 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Published on: Saturday, June 21, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 21, 2025 By: Ir Ts KJ TAN, FIEM, JP Text Size: DENGUE fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the dengue virus (DENV), has remained one of the most pressing public health threats, particularly in tropical urban centers like Kota Kinabalu areas Sabah. Transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, dengue infections continue to escalate despite years of government-led interventions such as fogging, larviciding, and public health education. While these strategies have played a role in limiting outbreaks, a persistent and frequently overlooked factor continues to undermine control efforts: the household environment. The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) has formulated Guidelines on the Prevention and Control of Dengue in which households form a critical frontline in the war against dengue. Understanding and addressing the factors that allow mosquitoes to breed within and around homes is key to breaking the cycle of transmission. The Aedes aegypti mosquito has evolved to thrive in human-made environments. Unlike other species that favor natural wetlands or rural ponds, Ae. aegypti actively seeks out artificial containers with clean, stagnant water for breeding. Commonly found habitats include buckets, roof gutters, potted plants, dish trays, old tires, and even bottle caps. Advertisement Its breeding and biting behaviors further increase its threat: Ae. aegypti bites during the daytime, especially early mornings and late afternoons, often inside homes or in shaded areas near dwellings. Their eggs can survive without water for months, hatching when water becomes available. The entire mosquito life cycle – from egg to larva to adult – can be completed in seven to 10 days under optimal conditions, making it highly efficient at establishing new colonies rapidly after rain or in homes with poor sanitation. Despite this biological advantage, Aedes mosquitoes are not invincible. The most effective weapon against them is not fogging or chemical treatment, but source reduction – the elimination of breeding grounds. In this context, the household becomes both a risk and a solution. Most mosquito breeding occurs within a 100m radius of human activity. Studies conducted in Malaysian cities have shown that more than 50pc of breeding sites are located within domestic settings, where household water containers, improperly managed waste, and poor drainage systems create ideal conditions. This reality highlights the critical need for residential-level interventions. The IEM Guidelines recommend that each household adopt a systematic and technical approach to prevent mosquito breeding. One of the most effective and simple measures is the weekly 10-minute inspection. Residents are advised to dedicate ten minutes each week to checking both inside and outside their homes for stagnant water. This includes commonly overlooked spots such as flowerpot trays, bathroom floor traps, kitchen sinks, laundry buckets, pet water dishes, and items left outdoors that may collect rainwater. However, inspections must go beyond simply tipping water out. Ae. aegypti eggs adhere to container walls and remain viable for months. Therefore, all water-holding items should be scrubbed, dried, and, where possible, stored in a dry position or covered to prevent refilling by rain or household use. A crucial but often under-managed aspect of residential design is water storage and rainwater harvesting. Many households, especially in semi-urban or water-insecure areas, rely on large containers to store water for cleaning or garden use. If these containers are left uncovered or only partially sealed, they become perfect breeding grounds. The IEM guidelines advise that all water storage should be fully sealed or covered with mosquito-proof mesh with apertures not exceeding 1.2mm. Additionally, rainwater harvesting systems should be designed with self-draining features, overflow outlets, and flush systems to prevent water stagnation in gutters, downpipes, and filtration components. Where sealing is not practical, safe biological larvicides such as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) may be applied periodically. Roof gutter systems represent another hidden danger. Improperly installed or poorly maintained gutters trap organic matter such as leaves and silt, leading to blocked drains and water accumulation after rainfall. Slopes that are too shallow or absent of overflow mechanisms exacerbate this issue. According to the IEM, gutters should be cleaned at least monthly, and ideally be fitted with leaf guards, inspection ports, and anti-mosquito mesh over drain outlets. Any system collecting roof water should be designed with adequate fall gradient to ensure efficient flow and prevent pooling. The same attention must be paid to sanitation and household plumbing systems. Bathroom floor traps, unused toilets, and rarely used sinks can become stagnant if the water seal is not regularly replenished. Leaky pipes under kitchen cabinets or external taps can also result in puddles that serve as mosquito nurseries. It is advised that homeowners perform plumbing checks quarterly and fix leaking connections promptly. Floor traps and gully traps not in use should be sealed or treated with cooking oil, which forms a surface layer that suffocates larvae. Another often neglected contributor is poor waste management. Discarded items such as broken toys, cans, unused flowerpots, or even polystyrene containers left in gardens or porches can trap rainwater. In high-rise buildings, recycling materials such as plastic bottles or food containers stored in open-air spaces pose additional risk. The guidelines recommend that recyclables be punctured and dried before storage and always kept under cover. Homes should also undertake regular decluttering, particularly in outdoor areas and balconies. Community recycling centers and municipal contractors should support proper collection and disposal to reduce container waste exposure. While engineering solutions and technical recommendations form the backbone of prevention, behavioral change is what ensures their sustainability. Dengue prevention should become part of the household's weekly routine, alongside tasks such as sweeping or taking out the trash. Children should be taught to report stagnant water or mosquito sightings, while household helpers or tenants must be equally informed. Awareness campaigns rooted in WHO's Combi (Communication for Behavioural Impact) model stress the importance of not just knowledge but habit formation. Posters, fridge magnets, and weekly SMS alerts have been successfully deployed in various localities to serve as reminders. When a suspected dengue case arises in a household, immediate containment is essential. The infected person should always sleep under a mosquito net, including daytime, to avoid being bitten by Aedes mosquitoes, which could then spread the virus. Simultaneously, the household should undergo a detailed inspection, not only of the patient's room but the entire compound. Neighbors must be alerted, and the local vector control unit – such as the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) should be notified to conduct fogging or larviciding in the vicinity. In this effort, stakeholder collaboration is indispensable. Homeowners, property managers, developers, and municipal authorities must work together to address shared spaces and structural risks. Developers have a responsibility to incorporate mosquito-resistant design in new housing schemes. This includes proper landscaping to avoid water retention, the use of permeable pavements, well-graded drainage systems, and the installation of sealed water tanks and inspection-accessible gutters. For high-rise or gated communities, property managers must schedule quarterly inspections of rooftop water tanks, basements, and sump pits. Maintenance logs should be maintained and subject to health inspections. Local authorities play a crucial role in enforcement and education. DBKK and related councils must uphold existing health by-laws that prohibit the harboring of mosquito breeding sites. This can include issuing compound fines or warnings to households found in violation during routine checks. Equally important is the provision of public education materials in multiple languages to reach all segments of the population, including migrant workers and the elderly. Sabah's unique climatic and demographic conditions further intensify the need for household-level dengue resilience. The state's equatorial rainfall patterns and hot temperatures create year-round breeding conditions, while many residents live in low-density housing with access to outdoor space — increasing exposure to container habitats. During the monsoon season, when rain is frequent and intense, mosquito populations can surge rapidly, outpacing fogging efforts. Therefore, household preparation and maintenance must be intensified before, during, and after seasonal peaks. Historical data from Kota Kinabalu district show that dengue outbreaks have occurred in predictable cycles, often corresponding to periods of sustained rainfall and stagnation of preventive efforts. The National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC) has noted that case clusters frequently originate from residential areas where multiple breeding sites are found within proximity. In one notable case in KK district in 2022, over 60pc of the breeding sites were traced to household premises, despite weekly fogging efforts in public spaces. This highlights the irreplaceable role of domestic source control. In conclusion, household-level dengue control is not merely an auxiliary component of vector management – it is the foundation upon which all other strategies rest. Engineering controls, environmental design, behavioral adaptation, and policy enforcement must converge at the household level to sustainably reduce dengue transmission. The IEM Guidelines offer a scientifically grounded and practically implementable framework for empowering households to play a leading role in mosquito control. In a rapidly urbanizing city like Kota Kinabalu where human activity constantly reshapes the environment, household vigilance, maintenance discipline, and structural design must evolve in parallel. A mosquito-free home is not just a private benefit – it is public responsibility and a civic duty. As dengue continues to pose a threat to public health, the pathway to control lies not in complex technology, but in consistent, collective household action – one container, one drain, and one home at a time. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
07-06-2025
- Borneo Post
Engineering can solve Sabah's challenges
Ir Ts Tan KJ, FIEM, JP Engineering has long been the cornerstone of national development — solving water supply problems, driving infrastructure, energy systems, transportation, and technological advancements. In Sabah, a state rich in natural resources and cultural diversity, engineering talent is pivotal to realizing the aspirations of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan, which aims to foster a competitive, sustainable and inclusive economy. However, recent trends indicate a decline in the number of students enrolling in engineering programs in Sabah. Factors such as limited awareness, perceived difficulty of the field, lack of industry exposure, and shifting career interests contribute to this downturn. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and professional bodies like the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch. Let us delve into the root causes of the declining interest in engineering among Sabah's youth, outlines strategic measures to rekindle enthusiasm for the field, and highlights the initiatives undertaken by IEM Sabah to cultivate a new generation of engineers. Understanding the Decline in Engineering Interest 1. Perceived Complexity and Lack of Creativity Engineering is often perceived as a challenging discipline, heavily reliant on mathematics and physics, which may deter students who view themselves as less proficient in these areas. Additionally, the misconception that engineering lacks creativity further diminishes its appeal to students seeking innovative and dynamic career paths. 2. Limited Exposure to Engineering Role Models Many students in Sabah grow up without direct exposure to engineers or understanding the tangible impact of engineering on their communities. The absence of relatable role models in the field makes it difficult for students to envision themselves pursuing engineering careers. 3. Disconnect Between Curriculum and Real-World Applications The current science and mathematics curricula in schools often fail to demonstrate how theoretical concepts apply to real-world problems. This disconnect can lead to a lack of appreciation for the practical value of engineering, resulting in diminished interest among students. 4. Emergence of Alternative Career Paths The rise of digital content creation, e-commerce, and entrepreneurship presents alternative career options that appear more accessible and immediately rewarding. These emerging fields often overshadow traditional disciplines like engineering in the eyes of the youth. The Critical Role of Engineering in Sabah's Development Despite shifting career preferences, engineering remains integral to Sabah's socio-economic transformation. From renewable energy projects in Kudat to smart water management systems in Kota Belud, engineers are essential in addressing the state's infrastructural and environmental challenges. Engineering aligns closely with the three thrusts of the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan: 1. Agriculture, Industry, and Tourism (Thrust 1): Engineering drives innovation in agriculture through automated irrigation and smart farming technologies, enhances manufacturing with industrialized building systems (IBS), and supports tourism infrastructure development. 2. Human Capital Development (Thrust 2): A robust pipeline of engineers contributes to high-skilled job creation, reducing youth unemployment and fostering economic growth. 3. Green Sustainability and Climate Resilience (Thrust 3): Engineers play a pivotal role in renewable energy initiatives, waste management, and flood mitigation efforts, addressing key environmental concerns in Sabah. Strategic Measures to Attract More Students into Engineering To reverse the declining trend in engineering enrolment, a multifaceted approach is necessary, encompassing curriculum reform, policy advocacy, early exposure, scholarships, and industry partnerships. 1. Engineering Immersion in Secondary Schools Implement state-wide 'Engineering Awareness Weeks' in collaboration with polytechnics, universities and engineering firms. Activities should include: • Hands-on Workshops: Engage students in projects like Arduino programming, drone design, 3D printing, and renewable energy simulations. • Industry Visits: Organize tours of construction sites, hydroelectric plants, and engineering laboratories to provide real-world insights. • Problem-Solving Challenges: Host interschool competitions where students develop solutions to community issues, such as flood alert systems or solar-powered irrigation. For example, the 'Young Engineers of Sabah' competition can be held annually at district and state levels to foster interest and innovation. 2. Integration of Engineering Concepts into the Curriculum Collaborate with the Ministry of Education to incorporate engineering fundamentals as electives in Form 4 and Form 5 science streams. Proposed modules include: • Design Thinking and Systems Engineering: Encourage creative problem-solving and holistic understanding of complex systems. • Sustainable Design and Basic Robotics: Introduce students to environmentally conscious engineering practices and automation technologies. • Teacher Training: Equip science and math teachers with the skills to facilitate engineering projects, such as constructing model bridges or programming basic microcontrollers. 3. Engineering Role Model Outreach Launch a 'Sabah Engineering Ambassadors' program, where local and international engineers visit schools to share their experiences and mentor students. Emphasize diversity by featuring female engineers, professionals from rural backgrounds, and those working in emerging fields like green energy and smart cities. 4. Government-Sponsored Engineering Bootcamps Organize holiday bootcamps in partnership with institutions like Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Politeknik Kota Kinabalu, ILP and industry partners such as the Public Works Department (JKR) or Sabah Electricity (SE). Focus areas can include civil structures, electrical circuits, mechanical systems, and environmental engineering. Offer free admission for students from low-income families and provide incentives like internship placements for top participants. 5. Engineering Scholarships with Return-of-Service Agreements Expand state-funded scholarships specifically for engineering degrees, offering full tuition coverage and monthly allowances. Implement return-of-service schemes where graduates commit to working in public agencies or rural infrastructure projects for a specified period. Create specialized tracks for students interested in high-impact sectors like sustainable energy and rural development. IEM Sabah's Initiatives to Cultivate Future Engineers The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch plays a crucial role in nurturing engineering talent through various programs and collaborations. 1. STEM Outreach Programs IEM Sabah conducts STEM outreach initiatives in schools to inspire future engineers. These programs aim to spark interest in engineering by demonstrating its relevance and impact on society. 2. Young Engineers Section (YES) The Young Engineers Section under IEM Sabah provides a platform for young professionals to engage in mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities. YES organizes technical talks, workshops, and community service projects to enhance the skills and knowledge of aspiring engineers. 3. Scholarships and Financial Aid IEM offers several scholarships to support students pursuing engineering degrees, including: • Presidential Scholarship • TT Chiam Scholarship • SEGi – IEM Scholarship • Ir. Thean Lip Thong Scholarship These scholarships aim to alleviate financial burdens and encourage more students to enter the engineering field. 4. Industry Collaboration and Career Development IEM Sabah connects students with potential employers by organizing career fairs and industry networking events. These initiatives bridge the gap between education and employment, providing students with insights into the engineering profession and potential career paths. 5. Community Engagement and Rural Outreach Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, IEM Sabah plans to launch a Rural Engineering Outreach program. This initiative aims to extend engineering education and awareness to rural communities, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to opportunities in the field. Policy Recommendations for the Sabah State Government To further support the development of engineering talent in Sabah, the state government should consider the following policy measures: 1. Establish an Engineering Talent Development Task Force Create an inter-agency task force comprising representatives from the State Ministry of Education and Innovation, JKR, UMS, local engineering associations, and relevant NGOs. The task force would: • Assess the current engineering education pipeline in Sabah. • Coordinate exposure programs across districts. • Integrate youth training components into SMJ-aligned infrastructure projects. 2. Incorporate Engineering into the SMJ Flagship Agenda Position engineering development as a flagship pillar within the SMJ roadmap, similar to agriculture and tourism. Initiatives could include: • Developing an 'Engineer Sabah 2030' blueprint with targets for producing a specified number of homegrown engineers annually. • Linking engineering education with major SMJ projects like the Pan Borneo Highway and renewable energy initiatives. • Establishing industry-academic-government consortiums to co-develop engineering curricula aligned with Sabah's development needs. 3. Expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Pathways Introduce a TVET-to-degree pathway for students, particularly from rural areas, who may not immediately qualify for university. This pathway would involve: • Starting with diploma or certificate programs at vocational colleges. • Progressing to degree programs at institutions like UMS or Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL). • Providing mentoring, bridging modules in math and science, and guaranteed progression for students who meet performance criteria. 4. Enhance STEM Infrastructure in Rural Schools Allocate SMJ funds to equip rural schools with: • Mini engineering labs featuring tools like Arduino kits, LEGO robotics, and water pump models. • High-speed internet access for engineering simulations and virtual labs. • Partnerships with NGOs to train teachers and facilitate workshops. 5. Launch a Public Campaign: 'Build Sabah. Be an Engineer.' Develop a comprehensive public campaign to elevate the profile of engineering as a profession. Utilize social media, television advertisements, and school posters to: • Depict engineers solving real-world problems in Sabah. • Highlight diverse profiles of engineers, including young, female, and rural professionals. • Share compelling narratives that showcase the impact of engineering on daily life. Conclusion Building a Progressive Future Through Engineering Engineering is more than a profession; it is a catalyst for innovation, problem-solving, and societal transformation. To ensure Sabah's continued progress under the Sabah Maju Jaya vision, it is imperative to rekindle interest in engineering among the youth. Through collaborative efforts involving educational reform, grassroots outreach, financial support, and a renewed narrative around engineering, Sabah can cultivate a new generation of engineers poised to build, design, and sustain a better future for the state. Let us not merely admire innovation from afar but foster it within our communities. Let the next bridge, building, or renewable energy project carry not just concrete and steel but the aspirations and dreams of Sabah's young engineers.
