Curtin Malaysia champions financial literacy and sustainability on National Financial Awareness Day

Miri, Sarawak – 23 August 2024 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) took a proactive step towards empowering its community with essential financial knowledge by hosting a dynamic event in observance of National Financial Awareness Day. With an emphasis on financial literacy and sustainable finance, the event attracted a diverse audience of students, staff, and faculty members, sparking crucial conversations on how finance intersects with sustainability.

Held at the university’s Faculty of Business building, the event featured a poster exhibition that covered an array of financial topics, from climate finance and stock trading to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing. The exhibition was not just an educational showcase but a call to action for attendees to adopt responsible financial habits that align with global sustainability goals.

The event, spearheaded by Dr. Mohammad Abdul Matin Chowdhury with guidance from Dr. Dhanuskodi Rengasamy, Head of the Department of Accounting, Finance and Economics, and Professor Pauline Ho Poh Ling, Dean of the Faculty of Business, focused on this year’s theme: ‘Sustainable Finance.’ The theme underscored how finance plays a pivotal role in addressing environmental and economic challenges, aligning with global efforts to build a sustainable future.

Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor and distinguished guest at the event, applauded the initiative’s impact. He highlighted the importance of expanding financial literacy to younger generations by involving school students in future events and suggested collaboration with professional bodies like CPA Australia, the Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA) and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) to host financial competitions and forums.

Professor Ho indicated that Financial Awareness Day served as a poignant reminder of the critical role financial plays in securing a stable future for ourselves and our loved ones. In a world where financial decisions reverberate through aspect of our lives, the transformative power of financial literacy cannot be overstated. A scalable initiative that empowers people with the financial literacy skills they need to make better financial decisions has the potential to address five SDGs, namely SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing); SDG 4 (Quality Education); SDG 5 (Gender Equality); SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities); and SDG 17 (Partnership for Goals). These five SDGs form the nexus of positive change and it is through the lens of financial literacy that we can truly unlock their potential.

The event drew an impressive turnout, with over 100 students and 30 staff members attending. The carefully curated posters not only educated but also ignited lively discussions, encouraging participants to reflect on their personal financial strategies and the role of sustainable finance in today’s world. The blend of academic insights and practical information resonated well with attendees, demonstrating the importance of fostering financial responsibility within the campus community.

In his closing address, Dr. Mohammad Abdul Matin expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and active participation. He reiterated the department’s commitment to making National Financial Awareness Day an annual highlight at Curtin Malaysia, ensuring that financial education remains a cornerstone of the university’s community engagement efforts.

Dr. Dhanuskodi further stressed the significance of financial literacy, calling it the “lifeblood of both business and everyday life.” He noted that a solid understanding of finance equips individuals to make informed decisions, manage risks effectively, and contribute meaningfully to both personal and societal prosperity.

As Curtin Malaysia looks ahead to next year’s event, the success of this year’s National Financial Awareness Day sets the stage for even broader and more impactful initiatives. The university’s ongoing dedication to promoting financial literacy and sustainability aligns with its strategic focus on people, planet, and partnerships, contributing to a brighter, more financially responsible future.

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

Dr. Dhanuskodi (fifth from left) and Dr. Mohammad Abdul Matin (third from right) with Professor Lee (fourth from right) and other academics

Dr. Mohammad Abdul Matin shares insights with Professor Lee while others look on

Students engage with the informative displays during National Financial Awareness Day