Curtin Malaysia brings student wellbeing research to Riam Road Secondary School

Miri, Sarawak – 20 December 2025 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is translating research into real-world impact through a community outreach visit by its Faculty of Business to Riam Road Secondary School (RRSS), empowering students with practical tools to manage academic stress and enhance wellbeing.

Led by Associate Professor Lew Tek Yew, Head of the Management and Marketing Department, the Curtin Malaysia delegation included senior lecturer Dr. Muhammad Imran Tanveer Opel, lecturer Dr. Muhammad Usman, and three Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students.

The interactive session engaged 72 students and three teachers, focusing on the realities of adolescent life in today’s academic environment. The students were guided to identify common stressors such as assessment overload, group work pressures, financial concerns, and transportation challenges – issues that are increasingly affecting secondary school learners.

Moving beyond theory, the Curtin team introduced evidence-based coping strategies designed to build resilience and emotional wellbeing. These included effective time management and planning, open communication with peers, physical activity, rest, and seeking timely support when needed.

By the end of the session, the students demonstrated a clearer understanding of how positive coping strategies can reduce stress and improve academic and personal outcomes. The discussions also helped normalise help-seeking behaviour, encouraging a supportive school culture grounded in empathy and practical problem-solving.
Associate Professor Lew emphasised that cultivating healthy coping habits early is essential for long-term wellbeing and success throughout a student’s educational journey.

To mark the occasion, goodie bags were distributed to all participating students, and a souvenir was presented to the teacher-in-charge, Dr. Amelia Chong, in appreciation of her role in coordinating the visit.

The initiative underscores Curtin Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to applying evidence-based research for meaningful community engagement and positive social impact.

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

Associate Professor Lew Tek Yew (front row, right) with his team, RRSS teachers and students.

Associate Professor Lew Tek Yew (right) presenting a souvenir to Dr Amelia Chong, with D. Muhammad Imran Tanveer Opel (left) and Dr Muhammad Usman looking on.