SRDC BrightSparX

The SRDC BrightSparX grant program, first introduced in 2019, is now in its third edition. It is a pioneering initiative in Sarawak that invests in pupils as young as 10, giving them funding, research support and encouragement to treat research as part of everyday learning.

SRDC BrightSparX is both a STEM learning program and a cultural shift toward building a knowledge-driven economy.

The program provides RM5,000 research grants to primary and secondary school pupils so they can bring their innovative STEM ideas to life. Its main aim is to help students master STEM while developing critical thinking and a curious, research-oriented mindset.

In October 2025, a panel of experts selected 100 teams from more than 180 entries to participate in the grant program.

Each team is guided by mentors, including teachers, university lecturers, researchers, scientists, engineers, and other professionals. SRDC also connects teams to universities, research institutes, and industry labs so they can access scientific equipment and facilities.

After a year of research and development, the top teams will pitch their findings at the Sarawak SHInE International Conference 2026 (Science, Health, Innovation & Engineering). Projects are judged on innovation and creativity, depth of STEM knowledge, technical complexity and feasibility, communication and collaboration, and their potential impact on Sarawak’s PCDS 2030 goals.

You are warmly invited to join the SRDC BrightSparX pitching session at Sarawak SHInE 2026 to support and celebrate the efforts of Sarawak’s future scientists, and to witness the search for the Premier’s BrightSparX Award winner.

Please check the conference program for the exact time and location of the pitching session.

The SRDC BrightSparX team from SJK (C) Chung Hua, Sibu presenting “BIOGAS PRODUCTION FROM ROTTEN FRUITS: A COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT INOCULA”.

For more information: BIOGAS PRODUCTION FROM ROTTEN FRUIT SUBMISSION - Google Drive