THE POWER OF STEM: EXAMINING STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN MALAYSIA'S MULTI-DOMAIN EDUCATION REFORM

This study investigates the role of STEM integration in driving educational reform within Malaysian secondary schools, emphasizing the mediating influence of strategic leadership and change management. Using a quantitative research design and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the study analyses relationships among four key constructs: STEM, Leadership, Change Management and Education Reform. Findings reveal that STEM significantly influences both leadership development and organizational change, with leadership emerging as the strongest mediator in translating STEM initiatives into reform outcomes. While change management supports structural adaptation, its indirect impact on education reform is less pronounced. The research contributes a unified framework that bridges technology, leadership, and change processes, offering both theoretical advancement and practical guidance for policymakers. Limitations related to context and design are acknowledged, with recommendations for longitudinal, mixed-methods, and cross-cultural studies to refine and expand the model. Overall, the study positions STEM as a strategic catalyst for systemic change, reinforcing the importance of visionary leadership in sustaining innovation within education systems. .