Curtin honours six outstanding Malaysian alumni at 2026 awards and homecoming event in Miri

Miri, Sarawak – 4 May 2026 – Six distinguished Curtin alumni were honoured at Curtin University Malaysia’s Alumni Awards & Homecoming 2026, a flagship event in Miri that highlighted Curtin University’s growing regional and global influence.

Held at the Pullman Miri Waterfront, the event brought together more than 230 alumni from across Malaysia, alongside senior university leaders from Perth and Sarawak, as well as key stakeholders and partners. While the evening celebrated Curtin’s expanding network, the focus remained on the six award recipients whose achievements are shaping industries and communities in Malaysia and beyond.

In her opening address, Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne emphasised the evolving role of universities in a rapidly changing world, noting the need to equip graduates with the skills and research capabilities required to address future challenges. She highlighted the critical role of alumni and partners in advancing solutions for a better future, while underscoring the transformative, long-term impact of education.

The Curtin Malaysia Alumni Awards recognise graduates who are making meaningful contributions in their careers, communities and beyond. Presented across three categories, the awards honour individuals who exemplify leadership, innovation, integrity and global citizenship – core values of Curtin University – while reflecting the strength and influence of its alumni community.

From strengthening financial governance to advancing clean energy and empowering underserved communities, this year’s awardees reflected a breadth of achievement united by a common commitment to impact and leadership across sectors.

Datuk Nik Hasyudeen, recipient of the Professional Achievement Award (Business), was recognised for his leadership in financial regulation. As founding Executive Chairman of the Audit Oversight Board and a senior figure at the Securities Commission Malaysia, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening corporate governance, reinforcing trust and accountability in the financial sector.

Professor Dr Ir Ts Bridgid Chin Lai Fui, who received the Professional Achievement Award (Engineering & Science), is an internationally recognised expert in sustainable energy. Her research in biomass and waste-to-energy has earned global distinction, including recognition among the world’s top two percent of scientists. She also contributes to policy development and actively mentors future engineers.

Hannah Guansing, recipient of the Professional Achievement Award (Humanities & Health Sciences), was recognised for her contributions to education and mental health advocacy. Her work combines academic excellence, student leadership and community engagement, with a focus on improving access to education and promoting holistic wellbeing.

Dr Michelle Tiong, honoured with the Young Achievement Award, was recognised for her achievements in clean energy research. Her work in carbon capture technologies has gained international recognition, and she has secured major research grants in China as a foreign scientist, reflecting her growing global impact.

Dato’ Joey Yap, recipient of the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Award, was recognised for his success in building a global enterprise in Chinese metaphysics education. By modernising traditional knowledge into practical frameworks, he has established himself as a leading entrepreneur and prolific author.

Nurlina Hussin, who received the Community Achievement Award, was honoured for her work as a social entrepreneur. Through structured leadership and development programmes, she has empowered more than 3,000 individuals, particularly underserved youth, driving sustained community impact.

All six recipients will be considered for the prestigious global Curtin Alumni Awards, providing an opportunity to represent Malaysia on an international stage.

The event was attended by Curtin University Chancellor David Lock, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global Professor Xiaotian Zhang, Chief Operating Officer David Menarry, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer Dr Marco Shultheis, Sarawak Transport Minister and Chair of Curtin Malaysia’s Management Committee Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Miri Mayor and Curtin Malaysia Council member Adam Yii, as well as representatives from the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur and Curtin alumni chapters in Malaysia and Singapore – reflecting strong institutional and international partnerships.

With more than 23,000 alumni across Malaysia, Curtin’s network continues to play an important role in nation-building. The achievements of its graduates reflect the University’s mission to create lasting impact through education, innovation and collaboration.

In his closing remarks, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, Professor Vincent Lee, highlighted the strength of Curtin’s global alumni community, which now spans more than 290,000 graduates across over 160 countries. He noted that their achievements and leadership continue to enhance the university’s reputation while demonstrating the real-world value of a Curtin education.

He added that Curtin Malaysia’s growth remains anchored in academic excellence and research, with increasing numbers of PhD graduates and consistently strong graduate employability. Curtin Malaysia’s three consecutive wins at the Talentbank Employers’ Choice Awards, along with the growing presence of second-generation students on campus, reflect the continued trust and confidence placed in Curtin by its alumni.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Alumni Award winners (L–R) Datuk Nik Hasyudeen, Professor Dr Ir Ts Bridgid Chin Lai Fui, Hannah Guansing, Dr Michelle Tiong, Dato’ Joey Yap and Nurlina Hussin.

Senior university leaders, stakeholders and guests with Curtin alumni.

Professor Harlene Hayne delivering her address.

Professor Harlene Hayne and David Lock with award recipients and representatives.