BY SARAH HAFIZAH CHANDRA
KUCHING: Sarawak will have its first science centre which is scheduled for completion in 2024.
Construction work has begun on the Science Centre situated on 10.8 acres of land located along Jalan Stadium next to the Sarawak State Library in Petra Jaya here.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg officiated at the earth-breaking ceremony for the centre today.
Abang Johari said the centre would be on par with international standards.
“The ministry of Education, Science and Technological Research has taken steps and efforts to engage with numerous science centres within and outside of the country to gain insights on the establishment, management and operations of science centres.
“The centre will be of international standard. This is why I sent ministry officials throughout the world to get the right science centre but adjusted to our environment, particularly in this tropical climate,” he explained.
The centre will be equipped with facilities such as interactive exhibits, science labs, digital lab, tinkering area, astronomy observatory, science shows area, mini auditorium, seminar hall, discussion room and office space.
Abang Johari said that the impact of the science centre would be felt throughout Sarawak although it is located in Kuching.
“This is why we are equipping the centre with a hostel accommodation, so that students throughout Sarawak can come and join the programmes organised by the centre or other relevant agencies and have a place to stay at,” he added.
Abang Johari also expressed his appreciation to the Singapore Science Centre for their guidance.
