Curtin Malaysia empowers indigenous students through mental wellbeing and academic motivation programme

Miri, Sarawak – 17 September 2026 – Helping indigenous secondary school students build resilience, confidence and a stronger sense of purpose, the Faculty of Business at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has taken learning beyond the classroom through a community engagement and knowledge transfer programme focused on mental wellbeing and academic motivation.

Funded through the Faculty of Business Community Engagement Fund, the programme, titled ‘Enhancing Mental Wellbeing and Academic Motivation among Indigenous Students,’ brought together Curtin Malaysia academics, Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students and secondary school students for a day of interactive learning, discussion and knowledge sharing.

The initiative was designed to help secondary school students better understand and manage everyday pressures while strengthening their confidence, motivation and aspirations for their education and future careers.

Dr. Muhammad Usman, lecturer in Management and Marketing at Curtin Malaysia, said the programme created an engaging and supportive environment where the students could openly participate in activities and discussions covering mental wellbeing, positive coping strategies, stress management, self-confidence, academic motivation, communication, goal setting and self-management.

“Through these activities, the students were encouraged to recognise and manage everyday pressures, develop a more positive mindset towards their studies, strengthen confidence in their own abilities, and consider practical steps they can take towards achieving their academic and personal goals,” he said.

Associate Professor Lew Tek Yew, associate professor in Human Resource Management, said the initiative was also aimed at empowering the students to become more confident, motivated and future-oriented, while strengthening Curtin Malaysia’s ongoing engagement with local communities through education and knowledge sharing.

“Beyond supporting the students’ immediate wellbeing and motivation, the programme also sought to broaden their awareness of higher education opportunities, future career pathways and personal development,” he said.

Adding a university perspective to the programme, Curtin Malaysia faculty members and HDR students engaged directly with the participants, giving them opportunities to ask questions, exchange experiences and gain a better understanding of the university learning environment.

The Curtin HDR students also played an active role in facilitating group activities and engaging with the participants, creating opportunities for peer-to-peer interaction and strengthening the programme’s knowledge-sharing component.

The programme reflects the Faculty of Business’ continued commitment to using its academic expertise to create meaningful community impact, while encouraging young people to recognise their potential, pursue their educational aspirations and think more confidently about their futures.

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Associate Professor Lew (2nd left) and Dr Muhammad Usman presenting a certificate of participation to a student.

Curtin Malaysia HDR students and their lecturers posing for a group photo with participants.