(Kuching, 29th) What started as a simple learning excursion ended up becoming a pivotal moment of inspiration for future directions. A group of students from SMK Bau recently attended a seminar held in conjunction with the Asia Pacific Aerospace Conference & Exhibition (APACE 2026) at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). After the event, they gained a much clearer vision of their future academic and career paths.
For 56-year-old teacher Michael Jeali, this seminar was more than just a regular field trip.
He said: "This was a rare opportunity, allowing students to directly listen to insights from industry professionals and training institute representatives, people who are actively shaping the future talent framework of Sarawak. This seminar was extremely beneficial for the students."
This teacher, who teaches Malay language and visual arts, remarked that the students could learn directly from experts in various fields; this kind of first-hand exposure truly broadened their horizons and ways of thinking.
He believes that focus and a sense of direction are especially crucial for students about to complete their secondary education.
He said: "For SPM graduates, figuring out the next step is often confusing. These seminars help them understand what options are available and where their interests might lead them."
Although the aerospace field is still relatively unfamiliar to many students, Michael Jeali believes it has tremendous development potential.
He revealed that several graduates from his school have already taken the first step.
"I already have three former students who enrolled in aerospace-related courses at CENTEXS Lundu two or three months ago. They are currently in their first semester," he said.
He added that the aerospace industry has good employment prospects, including attractive salaries, especially for young people who are willing to explore emerging fields.
He said: "As a teacher, I encourage students to pursue their interests. The aerospace field offers great job opportunities, and as long as students are willing to work hard and maintain their curiosity, there is vast room for growth."
One student particularly inspired by the event is Clare Jamya, a 17-year-old Form Five student.
She said: "I learned a lot from this seminar, especially about aerospace knowledge. I found that this field is very broad and also offers many good job opportunities."
With the SPM examinations approaching, she said the event has given her a clearer sense of her future path.
She said: "For those of us about to graduate, learning more about aerospace makes us feel we really have a chance to become part of this sector."
Despite majoring in the arts, Clare stated her interest in science and STEM subjects makes aerospace deeply appealing to her.
She remarked bluntly: "Yes, I plan to continue my studies in an aerospace-related course after SPM. This aligns with my interest in science, and everything I learned today has further solidified my decision."
She also hopes this experience can encourage more classmates.
She said: "I'd like to invite friends interested in STEM to also consider the aerospace field."
For Michael Jeali, moments like these once again affirm the importance of events such as APACE 2026, not only for industry development but also for shaping the aspirations of young people.
He said: "When students see real career paths and role models actively working in these industries, their dreams become achievable. That's the greatest impact."
As Sarawak works to develop its aerospace industry, events like these may become key platforms to inspire the next generation to 'soar high'.
This seminar invited representatives from i-CATS University College, CENTEXS, Sarawak Skills, and PERKESO to form a panel discussion group that introduced students to further study pathways, skills training, and employment prospects, with a special focus on the aerospace industry.
As one of the region's important aerospace events, APACE 2026 aims to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, training institutions, and young talents to transform Sarawak into an emerging aerospace ecosystem hub. Besides high-level forums and exhibitions, the conference also greatly emphasizes youth participation and talent cultivation.
For 56-year-old teacher Michael Jeali, this seminar was more than just a regular field trip.
He said: "This was a rare opportunity, allowing students to directly listen to insights from industry professionals and training institute representatives, people who are actively shaping the future talent framework of Sarawak. This seminar was extremely beneficial for the students."
This teacher, who teaches Malay language and visual arts, remarked that the students could learn directly from experts in various fields; this kind of first-hand exposure truly broadened their horizons and ways of thinking.
He said: "For SPM graduates, figuring out the next step is often confusing. These seminars help them understand what options are available and where their interests might lead them."
Although the aerospace field is still relatively unfamiliar to many students, Michael Jeali believes it has tremendous development potential.
He revealed that several graduates from his school have already taken the first step.
"I already have three former students who enrolled in aerospace-related courses at CENTEXS Lundu two or three months ago. They are currently in their first semester," he said.
He added that the aerospace industry has good employment prospects, including attractive salaries, especially for young people who are willing to explore emerging fields.
He said: "As a teacher, I encourage students to pursue their interests. The aerospace field offers great job opportunities, and as long as students are willing to work hard and maintain their curiosity, there is vast room for growth."
One student particularly inspired by the event is Clare Jamya, a 17-year-old Form Five student.
She said: "I learned a lot from this seminar, especially about aerospace knowledge. I found that this field is very broad and also offers many good job opportunities."
With the SPM examinations approaching, she said the event has given her a clearer sense of her future path.
She said: "For those of us about to graduate, learning more about aerospace makes us feel we really have a chance to become part of this sector."
Despite majoring in the arts, Clare stated her interest in science and STEM subjects makes aerospace deeply appealing to her.
She remarked bluntly: "Yes, I plan to continue my studies in an aerospace-related course after SPM. This aligns with my interest in science, and everything I learned today has further solidified my decision."
She also hopes this experience can encourage more classmates.
She said: "I'd like to invite friends interested in STEM to also consider the aerospace field."
For Michael Jeali, moments like these once again affirm the importance of events such as APACE 2026, not only for industry development but also for shaping the aspirations of young people.
He said: "When students see real career paths and role models actively working in these industries, their dreams become achievable. That's the greatest impact."
As Sarawak works to develop its aerospace industry, events like these may become key platforms to inspire the next generation to 'soar high'.
This seminar invited representatives from i-CATS University College, CENTEXS, Sarawak Skills, and PERKESO to form a panel discussion group that introduced students to further study pathways, skills training, and employment prospects, with a special focus on the aerospace industry.
As one of the region's important aerospace events, APACE 2026 aims to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, training institutions, and young talents to transform Sarawak into an emerging aerospace ecosystem hub. Besides high-level forums and exhibitions, the conference also greatly emphasizes youth participation and talent cultivation.