KUCHING: The Sarawak English Literacy Conference (SELC) 2025 has firmly positioned itself as a transformative platform for advancing English literacy and STEM education, empowering educators, learners, and communities to thrive in an increasingly knowledge-driven economy.

According to a statement, SELC brought together 712 participants including educators, policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders, the conference showcased Sarawak’s leadership in literacy innovation and future-ready education.

Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and Patron of SELC 2025, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu commended the collective efforts of organisers, partners, and sponsors:

“English literacy is not merely about language mastery; it is the foundation for innovation, communication, and progress.

“Through platforms like SELC, we are empowering our educators and students to be confident contributors to Sarawak’s transformation towards a knowledge-driven and globally connected society.”

“Give a child English, you give them the world. To compete globally, we must ensure that English literacy is strengthened, because English is the gateway to knowledge, innovation, and opportunities,” he said.

Held at the Theatre Hotel and The Old Court House in Kuching, it served as a strategic platform for sharing ideas, strategies, and solutions that will shape the region’s education landscape in the years to come.

SELC 2025 underscored English literacy as the foundation of empowerment, communication, and progress.

By integrating literacy with STEM learning, the conference strengthened Sarawak’s commitment to building a globally competitive, knowledge-based economy in line with the state’s transformation agenda towards 2030.

Through keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, participants explored practical and innovative teaching approaches to raise English proficiency levels, build confidence among learners, and support educators in delivering high-impact education.

The emphasis on collaboration and knowledge sharing positioned SELC as a key driver of systemic change in literacy education.

The event also connected local educators with international experts, encouraging continuous professional growth and cross-border partnerships.

A highlight was the keynote session by International Trainer from Jolly Learning Ltd, Yvonne Dalorto.

“When we teach a child to read, we don’t just teach letters and sounds, we open the door to confidence, creativity, and a lifetime of learning. Literacy gives every child the voice to shape their future,” she said.

The conference was made possible through the strong support of key agencies including the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Sarawak State Education Department, Business Events Sarawak, and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak Branch.

Strategic collaboration with education partners and industry sponsors, including Jolly Learning Ltd, Pelangi Publication Sdn Bhd, Honor Technology Malaysia, and Teach for Malaysia amplified the reach and impact of the initiative.

Beyond its immediate outcomes, SELC 2025 leaves behind a legacy of collaboration, inspiration, and action.

The ideas and strategies exchanged at the conference continue to shape literacy development programmes, teacher training, and education policies that support Sarawak’s vision for a future-ready generation.

Educators and institutions across the region are encouraged to build upon the momentum generated, translating discussions into practical classroom strategies, community-based initiatives, and policy innovations that strengthen literacy outcomes for all learners.

SELC 2025 was held earlier this year in Kuching, Sarawak, with plans for its future editions already underway, promising to further elevate the state’s role as a regional leader in literacy and STEM education. -UKASnews