Curtin Malaysia Careers Fair attracts over 1,000 visitors, showcases employers’ commitment to future talent

Miri, Sarawak – 17 September 2024 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) celebrated another milestone with the success of its flagship annual Curtin Malaysia Careers Fair this year, attracting over 1,000 attendees from all walks of life.

The two-day event, held from September 13 at the university’s Recreation & Event Centre, was a vibrant exchange of opportunity and talent, with 50 organisations from a wide range of industries engaging with potential future employees.

The event saw a dynamic mix of current and soon-to-graduate Curtin students, Curtin alumni, final-year candidates from various educational institutions in Miri, and members of the public, all eager to connect with top employers and explore career opportunities. It was also an opportunity for university staff to engage and network with their industry partners.

From accounting and financial services to engineering, technology, and the plantation and oil & gas sectors, participating companies represented a cross-section of industries vital to Sarawak’s economic landscape.

In his keynote address, Deputy Mayor of Miri, Haji Ariffin Mohamad, highlighted Curtin Malaysia’s long-standing role in nurturing over 15,000 graduates, many of whom are now excelling in their respective fields globally. “Curtin Malaysia’s contribution to developing job-ready graduates, equipped with both technical expertise and cultural adaptability, is evident across Sarawak and beyond,” he remarked.

Ariffin lauded the university for its recognition as one of Malaysia’s Employers’ Preferred Universities by the Talentbank National Graduate Employability Index, underscoring its commitment to preparing students for workforce challenges. “This is not only a triumph for Curtin Malaysia but a testament to the strength of Miri and Sarawak in fostering excellence,” he said.

The Curtin Malaysia Careers Fair, a cornerstone in Miri’s professional calendar since its inception in 2010, has grown both in size and importance. Reflecting on its 14-year legacy, Ariffin expressed his admiration: “This fair offers unparalleled opportunities – not just for Curtin students and graduates but for the entire Miri community. It aligns with Sarawak’s broader vision of ensuring employability and fostering career growth for all Sarawakians.”

He further emphasised the event’s community service aspect, noting that opening the fair to the public extends valuable resources to job seekers of all backgrounds. “From fresh graduates to seasoned professionals looking to pivot careers, Curtin Malaysia is providing a platform for everyone. This approach is crucial to creating a future-ready workforce that will drive Sarawak’s continued economic growth.”

Professor Vincent Lee, Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the Careers Fair is more than a recruitment event –  it is a bridge connecting opportunities with potential. “Our mission is to shape the leaders of tomorrow, but we cannot do it alone. The support of our industry partners is invaluable. From offering internships and hands-on training to collaborating on research and innovation, employers play a critical role in equipping our students for real-world challenges.”

Professor Lee expressed hopes for continued employer support for next year’s event, emphasising that together, Curtin Malaysia and its industry partners can continue creating opportunities for growth, innovation, and long-term success.

The Curtin Malaysia Careers Fair 2024 was a true testament to the collaborative spirit between education and industry. Exhibitors, ranging from major corporations to local enterprises, engaged deeply with students and professionals, offering insights into industry trends, skill requirements, and available opportunities.

With the overwhelming success of this year’s Careers Fair, both Curtin Malaysia and its industry partners are optimistic about the future. Employers have expressed their satisfaction with the quality of interactions and potential recruits, while attendees left with a clearer vision of their career paths. Curtin Malaysia hopes that the continued support of employers and stakeholders will ensure that the next edition of the Careers Fair will be even bigger and more impactful.

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

Representatives from participating organisations and Curtin Malaysia staff pose with Haji Ariffin and Prof Lee at the opening of the Careers Fair

Job seekers engage with potential employers at the Careers Fair

A participating exhibitor giving an overview of his company to Prof Lee, Haji Ariffin and others

A staff member from SD Guthrie Berhad shares insights with students about career opportunities within the company