By MOHD IZHAM BIN HASHIM
KOTA KINABALU: Robotics kits, drones, and 3D printers took centre stage as ConocoPhillips Malaysia, the United States Embassy, and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) launched STEM Forward at the Sabah State Library (Tanjung Aru Branch) to promote science and digital learning.
“This programme builds on the American Corner Sabah, established at this library in June 2024, as part of our efforts to expand access to US education, exchange opportunities, and skills development for the local community,” said Grace Choi, U.S. Embassy Director of Public Engagement and Cultural Attaché.
She noted that the embassy is pleased to strengthen its commitment by partnering with American company ConocoPhillips and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS in support of the initiative.
The programme, part of ConocoPhillips’ broader STEM Education Accelerator initiative, is designed to inspire students, provide a solid academic foundation, and prepare future-ready talent.
As part of STEM Forward, ConocoPhillips Malaysia Senior General Manager, KBB Asset, Ian Ramshaw, presented the donation to the Director of Sabah State Library, George Yih Ching Yaw, in the presence of Grace Choi and Hassan Bin Mahali, Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. The donated equipment which includes robotic kits, a drone set, data analytics devices, and a 3D printer will be housed at the American Corner in the Tanjung Aru Library.
Through this collaboration, UTP program manager Dr. Nasir Abdul Jalil said UTP aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of STEM learning by supporting hands-on programs that cultivate creativity, digital literacy, and real-world applications of science and technology.
“Our responsibility is to continuously expand initiatives that prepare students not only to excel academically but also to thrive in rapidly evolving STEM fields,” he said.
President of ConocoPhillips Malaysia, Connor Dunn, underlined the importance of providing inclusive and equitable access to education, which is at the heart of the company’s commitment to giving back to society and shaping future generations.
“Investing in the communities where we live and work is a priority for ConocoPhillips Malaysia. As we become the sole operator of the Kebabangan Cluster, we look forward to serving the community’s needs and expanding our initiatives in Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ian added the initiative connects classroom learning with hands-on experiences. “Students engage in experiments and simulations that build interest in math and science, foster innovation, and encourage critical thinking,” he said.
ConocoPhillips has been active in Malaysia since 2000 and currently operates the Kebabangan Cluster fields off the coast of Sabah. Beyond its operations, the company has supported education and actively engages with schools through STEM outreach programmes in partnership with UTP. The company also supports learning continuity by providing financial bursaries through the MyKasih Foundation, ensuring that access to quality education remains inclusive and equitable for all.
