Introduction
The establishment of the first Common Science Laboratory (CSL) Miri under the Sarawak Research Development Council (SRDC) and Sarawak Science Centre (SSCiEX) marks a significant milestone in Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to elevate STEM education across the state. As Sarawak advances towards a knowledge-driven economy, initiatives such as the CSL play a crucial role in empowering students with hands-on scientific experience that many schools currently lack.
The concept of the Common Science Laboratory was first highlighted by the Premier of Sarawak, YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, during his announcement on the Sarawak Science Centre development. In his address, the Premier emphasised the need to strengthen the state’s science and technology ecosystem by ensuring that students, regardless of school resources or location, have access to proper laboratory facilities. The CSL model was introduced as a practical solution — a shared laboratory platform designed to serve multiple schools, particularly those without fully equipped science labs.
Milestone
Today, CSL Miri stands as the first operational facility implementing this model. Implemented by the Sarawak Research Development Council (SRDC), operated and managed by the Sarawak Science Centre (SSCiEX), the CSL is designed to provide students with direct exposure to scientific experiments, modern laboratory tools, and inquiry-based learning methods. The initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to nurturing scientific literacy among young Sarawakians and encouraging more students to pursue pathways in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Over the year, the CSL in Miri has already demonstrated its relevance and impact. In June 2025, it hosted a Sesi Libat Urus with science and mathematics teachers from across Miri district alongside officials from the District Education Office. The engagement session gathered valuable feedback on laboratory usage, equipment needs and strategies for supporting classroom learning through lab-based activities. Later, in October 2025, CSL Miri welcomed its first group of students — a cohort of Form 5 science-stream students — who participated in physics experiments using equipment many of their schools otherwise lack. These early engagements highlight how the CSL is gradually bridging resource gaps and strengthening scientific exposure for students in the region.
Future Plan
In addition to CSL Miri, the Sarawak Science Centre also houses a CSL within its main complex in Petra Jaya, further expanding access to practical science learning for students in the Kuching region. To broaden the statewide impact, the Sarawak Research and Development Council (SRDC) is also spearheading the establishment of five additional CSLs across Sarawak — located in Serian, Sri Aman, Kapit, Betong and Lawas. These upcoming facilities will allow more schools, including rural and semi-urban communities, to benefit from shared laboratory infrastructure. The expansion reflects a strategic statewide rollout designed to ensure that every division has access to quality science learning spaces, supporting the Premier’s vision of equitable and inclusive STEM education.