2024 Student Learning Awards celebrate commitment, perseverance and academic excellence at Curtin Malaysia

Miri, Sarawak – 7 October 2024 – In a celebration of student dedication and academic transformation, Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently honoured four outstanding students with Curtin Malaysia Student Learning Awards 2024. The awards recognised students who have shown extraordinary commitment to improving their academic standing and actively engaging in their learning journey.

The four recipients – Diploma of Commerce student Elly Maszlien Anak Aping, Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering student Yong Xing Xuan, Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Construction Engineering student Aimie Peace Siganul, and Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance student Ling Kian Wu – embody the resilience and hard work that these prestigious awards aim to celebrate.

Under the mentorship of dedicated academic staff, these students transformed their academic performance, advancing from Conditional academic status to Good Standing, a testament to both their own determination and the unwavering support of their lecturers.

Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Vincent Lee, in congratulating the awardees, praised their commitment to personal growth. “These students not just engaged with their coursework, they embraced it, demonstrating dedication, resilience, and an eagerness to improve. Their achievements are an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance,” he said.

Professor Tang Fu Ee, Dean of Learning and Teaching, highlighted the significance of the awards as a motivation for both students and academic staff. “When students see their hard work acknowledged, it drives them to push further. These awards not only celebrate the students’ progress but also honour the tireless efforts of their mentors. It is a celebration of academic partnership,” said Tang, noting how the awards continue to foster a culture of excellence across Curtin Malaysia.

“The Curtin Malaysia Student Learning Awards are more than just about celebrating students –  they are also about recognising the dedication of Curtin Malaysia’s academic staff who play pivotal roles in supporting students,” Prof. Tang added.

Dr. Tanusree Chakravarty Mukherjee, mentor to awardee Ling Kian Wu, spoke of the transformative effect the awards have on student engagement. “I have seen how winning this award has given Kian Wu the confidence to actively participate in class discussions. It is a fantastic initiative that truly impacts students’ motivation and self-belief.”

The celebration of these student-mentor relationships was evident as each award recipient reflected on their journey. For Aimie Peace Siganul, the award symbolised the result of unwavering dedication. “This award validates the countless hours of hard work. It reminds me that perseverance truly pays off, and I am immensely grateful for my lecturer’s support,” she said.

Dr. Tay Ai Chen, Aimie’s mentor, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of a nurturing academic environment. “The progress Aimie has made is remarkable. This award is not only a testament to her dedication but also a recognition of the value of effective mentorship. It is a proud moment for both of us,” said Dr. Tay.

For the lecturers, the awards are a reflection of their success as educators, fostering environments that encourage student growth. Dr. Angnes Tiong, who mentored awardee Yong Xing Xuan, expressed her pride in the achievements of her student. “Seeing Yong regain his academic standing is incredibly rewarding. These awards reinforce the importance of continuous support and remind us as academics of the impact we have on our students’ journeys.”

The Curtin Malaysia Student Learning Awards continues to shine a spotlight on the dynamic relationship between students and educators, cultivating an environment where both parties strive for excellence. This year’s recipients have not only improved their academic performance but have set a powerful example for their peers.

As Curtin Malaysia moves forward, initiatives like the Student Learning Awards play a key role in nurturing student success and academic excellence. Congratulations to the students and mentors who exemplify the spirit of perseverance and academic engagement at Curtin Malaysia.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

(Back row, from right) Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Science Prof Tuong-Thuy Vu and Prof Tang with the award winners

Aimie (2nd right) shares her success with Dr. Tay (2nd left), Prof Vu (right), and Prof Tang

Elly (2nd right) celebrates her success with her mentor, Chai (second left), while Prof Tang (left) and Prof Vu look on

Prof Tang (left) and Prof Thuy (right) with the winners, Dr Angnes Tiong (2nd left) and her student, Yong