MORE young girls are now opting for the science stream after participating in the Women in Zcience (WiZ) programme, organised by Tech Dome Penang with support from the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC), Penang Education Department (JPNPP) and other sponsors.
Tech Dome Penang chief executive officer Khoo Boo Wooi highlighted the programme’s impact at the launch of its 9th edition today, revealing that 82% of WiZ participants chose the science stream in 2023, with the number rising to 87% in 2024.
“This growth proves that when young women are given the right exposure, mentorship, and encouragement, they confidently embrace STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
“At Tech Dome Penang, our mission has always been to spark curiosity and empower future generations in science and technology. This year’s theme, Accelerating Young Women in STEM, is a call to action because when we remove barriers and create opportunities, young women can drive innovation and shape the future,” Khoo said during his speech at Tech Dome Penang today.
This year, the WiZ programme has attracted 280 students from 14 schools, offering them hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and exposure to real-world STEM applications.
Khoo expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of sponsors and partners, including Flex, Gamuda, Globetronics, Greatech, Jabil, Mi Equipment, and ViTrox, for their commitment to empowering young women in STEM.
“This is not a one-off programme, but a comprehensive 9-month programme designed to provide continuous learning and engagement for young women in STEM.
“Throughout these nine months, participants will take part in Science and AI workshops, Engineering workshops, and STEM competitions, all aimed at building their skills, confidence, and curiosity.
“The programme will culminate in exclusive factory visits to our sponsoring companies, allowing students to witness real-world STEM applications and career pathways firsthand. By investing in these young minds, we are shaping the future of innovation and ensuring that more young women see STEM as an exciting and attainable career path,” Khoo explained.
PWDC chief executive officer Datuk Ong Bee Leng shared an inspiring story of how Bertha Benz, a German woman, played a pivotal role in the development of Mercedes-Benz despite the challenges of her time, including being unable to secure patent rights as a woman while raising five children.
“She believed in more than just a car. She believed in herself,” Ong said, encouraging the students to have faith in their own potential.
Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, who represented Lim Siew Khim, the state executive councillor for state Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee, commended both Tech Dome Penang and PWDC for engaging thousands of female students in hands-on STEM experiences.
“With the theme “Accelerating Young Women in STEM,” this event is more than just a gathering. It is a movement dedicated to breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and opening doors for young women to excel in STEM fields,” Tan said.
Drawing a parallel with history, she recalled that women in the United Kingdom were not allowed to vote until 1928, when women’s groups fought for their rights and finally succeeded.
“Similarly, this is also a movement where we want more women to become scientists, innovators, and engineers. You are the future of Penang and Malaysia.
“You must always aim high and never let anyone dictate your ambitions,” she urged the students.
Sharing her own experience, Tan recounted how someone had questioned whether she could succeed in law studies before she left for England. “Now, 10 to 15 years later, I can tell that person I am a lawmaker in the Penang state assembly,” she said.
Penang Education Department deputy director Chen Thean Hock acknowledged his department’s strong collaboration with Tech Dome Penang to promote STEM education.
“In 2022, 38.85% of female students chose STEM courses. This increased to 51.82% in 2023 and further to 54.32% in 2024.
“The interest in STEM is growing, and I believe that when girls are well-equipped with knowledge, they can go far and make the world a better place,” Chen said.
The launch concluded with exciting science demonstrations, including Fire Tornado, Dragon’s Breath, Fire Bowl, and Fire Hand, with students reminded not to attempt these experiments at home.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat