Curtin Malaysia celebrates resilience and mentorship behind student success

Miri, Sarawak – 21 October 2026 – Six Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) students who transformed their academic standing through determination, perseverance and the support of dedicated mentors have been recognised at the 4th Curtin Malaysia Student Learning Awards (CMSLA) 2026.

The annual awards celebrate students who successfully progressed from Conditional to Good standing during the 2026 academic year, recognising not only their improved academic performance but also their commitment to active learning, consistent attendance, workshop participation and close engagement with lecturers.

The awards also honour the lecturers whose mentorship played a pivotal role in helping these students regain confidence and succeed academically.

Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive, presented the awards to the six student recipients and their mentors in recognition of their shared commitment to academic success.

The recipients were Brian Chong Yew Teck (Diploma of Media Studies), mentored by Fifi Liew Ee En; Mary Ann Usin Binti Alphonsus Raymond (Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Audit Analytics), mentored by Christie Liaw Shin Liang; Reyes Malcolm Lazarious Mawat (Foundation in Engineering and Science), mentored by Dr. Fong Ai Ling; Tiong King Ho (Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering), mentored by Dr. Tan Yin Ling; Mapalo Gregory Mwansa (Foundation in Engineering and Science), mentored by Jameson Malang; and Clement Liew Zi Chong (Bachelor of Applied Geology), mentored by Dr. Syed Bilawal Ali Shah.

One of the driving forces behind this success is the CARE Programme, an initiative introduced by Jameson Malang as part of the Conditional Student Working Group. The programme reimagined the university’s approach to supporting conditional students, replacing a process that could feel intimidating with one centred on encouragement, regular check-ins and approachable mentoring.

“It is important that they feel welcomed and cared for, rather than seeing the meetings as an obligation,” said Jameson. “Motivation is another key element, as it supports them through the semester; we may not always know when they are feeling stressed or stuck on their assignments.”

Dr. Syed Bilawal Ali Shah echoed the importance of personalised guidance, saying that every student has the potential to succeed when given the right support.

“Every student can succeed with the right guidance and encouragement. Through personalised mentoring, constructive feedback and continuous support, I strive to help students overcome challenges, build confidence and achieve their full potential,” he said.

Dean of Learning and Teaching Professor Tang Fu Ee said the awards reflect Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to fostering student success through meaningful partnerships between students and academics.

“It is deeply gratifying to witness how effectively our lecturers support students in transforming their academic performance. I am proud of the high quality of learning and teaching demonstrated by our academics, as well as the excellent engagement shown by our students,” he said.

For award recipient Mary Ann Usin, the recognition represents more than improved grades. She encouraged fellow students to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth, reminding them that a single failure does not define their journey as long as they continue moving forward.

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Professor Vincent Lee and Professor Tang Fu Ee with the CMSLA 2026 recipients and their mentors.

Professor Vincent Lee presents the CMSLA award to Mary Ann Usin and her mentor, Christie Liaw.