Curtin Sarawak students learn about operations at Bintulu manufacturing plant

Miri – 24 October 2016 – A recent site visit to Tokuyama Malaysia Sdn Bhd located at Samalaju Industrial Park in Bintulu proved to be highly educational for 32 undergraduate and postgraduate students of Curtin University, Sarawak Malaysia (Curtin Sarawak).

The visit to the industrial polycrystalline silicon manufacturing plant was organised by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) Student Chapter of Curtin Sarawak and led by senior lecturer of chemical engineering Dr Agus Saptoro.

The group was welcomed by Lim Chang Hiang, Assistant General Manager of Tokuyama’s Human Resources and Administration Department; and Mohammad Fairol Ritom, an engineer at the plant and a Curtin Sarawak graduate.

During the visit, the students learned about various aspects of the facilities and plant operations, including the production of polycrystalline silicon used in the manufacturing of semiconductors and solar cells. The visit also allowed the students to experience the real-life working environment of professional engineers.

Second-year chemical engineering student Mohammad Hossein Fadaei remarked that working in the industry is a learning process for both fresh graduates and senior engineers who have been working for many years. He also learned that safety is a main priority and engineers need to equip themselves with good communication and time management skills.

Meanwhile, Dr Agus commented that the visit exposed the students to various engineering concepts and allowed them to see how they are applied in a real working environment.

According to the student chapter’s academic advisors Dr Bridgid Chin Lai Fui and Dr Lau Shiew Wei, Curtin Sarawak is very supportive of such student activities as they can enhance and broaden the students’ learning experience.

The Curtin Sarawak IChemE Student Chapter serves to promote the latest developments and advances in the field of chemical engineering among Curtin Sarawak students as well as create opportunities for them to expand their professional networks.

For more information on the student chapter, email csichemesc@gmail.com or visit its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/curtinsarawakichemesc/.

The students with Dr Agus (standing, far right), Lim (squatting, 3rd right) and Mohammad Fairol (kneeling, far left).

Mohammad Fairol explaining to the students the processes in manufacturing polycrystalline silicone.