STEM Forward program group photo

KOTA KINABALU, 18th September ConocoPhillips Malaysia recently launched its STEM education and digital inclusion initiative, STEM Forward: Powered by ConocoPhillips and the U.S. Embassy, at the Tanjung Aru Library to raise awareness and nurture interest in STEM subjects through education and digital innovation.

Investing in the communities where we live and work is a priority for ConocoPhillips Malaysia. As we become the sole operator of the Kebabangan Cluster, we look forward to serving the community needs and expanding our initiatives in Sabah. Education is at the heart of our community giving, with a strong focus on providing inclusive and equitable access to learning. We believe that our initiatives could make a lasting impact in shaping future generations, said Connor Dunn, President ConocoPhillips Malaysia.

Students in groups learning about STEM

STEM Forward is part of ConocoPhillips Malaysia broader education initiative - STEM Education Accelerator, which is designed to inspire students, strengthen their academic foundations and nurture future-ready talents.

The STEM program is a joint collaboration between ConocoPhillips, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), and the U.S. Embassy. The initiative bridges classroom learning with hands-on and industry relevant experiences to foster critical thinking, creativity and digital literacy.

Through STEM Forward, we play a meaningful role in shaping the future of our youth through development programs that open doors to future careers in STEM-related fields. Students engage in hands-on experiments and simulations that connect science to everyday life. The program builds interest in Math and Science and deepens students understanding of STEM, fostering innovation and encouraging critical thinking, said Ian Ramshaw, Senior General Manager, KBB Asset, ConocoPhillips Malaysia.

The U.S. Embassy values its strong relationship with Sabah. In June 2024, we established American Corner Sabah at the Tanjung Aru Library as part of our effort to expand access to U.S. education, exchange opportunities, and skill development for the local community. We are proud to strengthen our commitment to Sabah by bringing in an American company, ConocoPhillips, which has partnered with Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) to support this program under American Corner Sabah,” said Grace Choi, Director of Public Engagement from the U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur.

Through this collaboration, UTP strives to enhance the quality and accessibility of STEM learning by supporting hands-on programs that cultivate creativity, digital literacy, and real-world applications of science and technology. Our responsibility as an educational institution is to continuously develop and expand initiatives that prepare students not only to excel academically but also to thrive in rapidly evolving STEM fields, ultimately contributing to Malaysia sustainable development and technological advancement," said Dr. Nasir Abdul Jalil, Program Manager, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS.

A group learning about the new fabrication machine

As part of the STEM Forward initiative, ConocoPhillips Malaysia donated data analytics devices, robotics kits, drone set, and a 3D printer to the Tanjung Aru Library. This contribution expands access to interactive learning tools and supports digital inclusion as well as STEM education in the community.

Ian Ramshaw presented the donation to Tanjung Aru Library representative George Yih Ching Yaw, Director of Sabah State Library and was witnessed by Grace Choi, Director of Public Engagement and Cultural Attach at the U.S. Embassy, and YBhg. Tuan Hassan Bin Mahali, Permanent Secretary of Sabah from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

The donated equipment will be placed in the American Corner within the Tanjung Aru Library, a hub for digital learning and cultural exchange that offers access to cutting-edge tools and educational resources.

ConocoPhillips Malaysia has been present in the country since 2000 and currently operates the Kebabangan Cluster fields PSC off the coast of Sabah with its operations based in Kota Kinabalu. Over the years, the company has made significant contributions to education and community development across Sabah. ConocoPhillips Malaysia actively engages with schools through STEM outreach programs in partnership with UTP. The company also supports learning continuity by providing financial bursaries through the MyKasih Foundation, ensuring that access to quality education remains inclusive and equitable for all. 

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About ConocoPhillips

At ConocoPhillips, it is our goal to build strong relationships and create positive outcomes wherever we operate. As a leading global exploration and production company, we value the places and communities where we live and work. We collaborate with our neighbors and contribute through charitable investments, volunteerism and high-impact programs. Every day is an opportunity for us to make a beneficial difference by working collaboratively, responsibly and safely.

Media contacts:

ConocoPhillips Malaysia
Suraya Haris Ong
Email: suraya.harisong@conocophillips.com
Mobile: +6012-272 6392
U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur
klusembassypress@state.gov