UPSI, MR. D.I.Y. Foundation Seal MoA to Strengthen STEM Education

TANJONG MALIM, 30 July – Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with MR. D.I.Y. Foundation to strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education through a sponsorship amounting to RM113,995 for the Perak Metamorphosis of Young STEMers (PMOYST) Programme.

UPSI Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof Dr Suriani Abu Bakar, said that the collaboration demonstrates how synergy between universities and the corporate sector can generate significant added value for the nation’s educational development.

According to her, developing future generations requires collective and sustained commitment from all stakeholders, particularly in nurturing a society that is competitive in the era of digital technology and artificial intelligence.

“This strategic collaboration with MR. D.I.Y. Foundation marks a meaningful step forward in strengthening efforts to empower STEM education in Malaysia.

“The RM113,995 sponsorship is more than a financial contribution; it reflects confidence in UPSI’s capabilities, particularly those of the Faculty of Science and Mathematics, in implementing impactful STEM development programmes that benefit the wider community,” she said during her speech at the Memorandum of Agreement Signing Ceremony between UPSI and MR. D.I.Y. Foundation held at the Seminar Room, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Sultan Azlan Shah Campus, today.

She added that through the combination of UPSI’s academic expertise and MR. D.I.Y. Foundation’s social commitment, more students will have the opportunity to explore their potential in STEM fields and develop the confidence needed to face future challenges.

The PMOYST Programme, introduced by UPSI’s Faculty of Science and Mathematics in 2011, was initially established as an initiative to cultivate students’ interest in STEM through creative, engaging and high-impact learning approaches.

Today, the programme has expanded beyond the state of Perak and has benefited primary and secondary school students, vocational college students, as well as students from higher education institutions nationwide.

Meanwhile, Suriani emphasised that UPSI remains committed to producing future educators, researchers, innovators and leaders who excel not only academically but also possess integrity, exemplary character and a strong sense of identity.

“The best investment is not merely in buildings or technology, but in human capital development. When universities and industries join forces, we are not only building programmes but also shaping the nation’s future through a generation of knowledgeable, skilled and morally grounded young people,” she said.

Also present at the ceremony were MR. D.I.Y. Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Zaleha Mohd Mydin; Dean of UPSI’s Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Prof Dr Mohd Faizal Nizam Lee Abdullah; and Director of UPSI’s Corporate Communications Division, Prof Dr Mohd Izwan Shahril.

By Bazli Razak, UPSI