Australian High Commissioner’s delegation explores strategic education ties at Curtin Malaysia

Miri, Sarawak – 26 March 2025 – The Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia, Her Excellency Danielle Heinecke, led a high-level delegation to Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) on Monday, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to strengthening education, research, and industry collaborations in Sarawak.

Accompanying H.E. Heinecke to Curtin University’s largest international campus were Colonel Corey Shillabeer, Defence Advisor; Paroksh Prasad, First Secretary; Jessica Baigent, Defence First Secretary; and Sophia Ngiaw, Senior Education Policy Manager. Their visit underscored Australia’s growing role in advancing Sarawak’s education and innovation landscape, with Curtin Malaysia at the forefront.

The delegation was warmly welcomed by Curtin Malaysia’s leadership, including Pro-Chancellor Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr. George Chan Hong Nam and his wife, Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon Chan; Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Vincent Lee; Chief Operating Officer Sharon Chong; faculty deans; senior managers, and the student council president.

In his address, Dr. Chan reflected on Curtin Malaysia’s 25-year journey as a regional education and research powerhouse, closely aligned with Sarawak’s development goals. HE Heinecke lauded Curtin Malaysia’s achievements and its role in producing globally competitive graduates, highlighting the campus’ contributions to Curtin’s global; standing and to research, innovation, and industry partnerships in Sarawak.

“Curtin Malaysia’s growth over the past 25 years is a testament to the strength of Australian-Malaysian collaboration in education. There is immense potential to deepen our ties, particularly in research and technology-driven fields,” said H.E. Heinecke.

Professor Vincent Lee echoed this vision, emphasising Curtin Malaysia’s role as a key player in fostering international academic and industry linkages.

During the visit, the delegation explored Curtin Malaysia’s key facilities, including the Curtin Global Admissions Office, Curtin Trading Room, Engineering Research Laboratory, and Curtin Aquaculture Research Laboratories (CARL). These modern, cutting-edge facilities reinforce Curtin Malaysia’s status as a hub for innovation and industry-relevant education.

The visit concluded on a high note, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to expanding educational exchanges, research collaborations, and industry-driven initiatives. As Curtin Malaysia continues to position itself as a catalyst for transformative change, this engagement marks a pivotal step in strengthening Australia-Malaysia ties and advancing Sarawak’s knowledge economy.

For more information, visit Curtin Malaysia’s website at curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Dr Chan (right) presenting a souvenir to HE Heinecke

(Front row, from right) Dr Chan, Lorna, Prof Lee, and Curtin Malaysia’s senior management team with HE Heinecke (front row, 5th from left) and the Australian delegation