Curtin Malaysia empowers more than 300 participants with financial literacy and career insights

Miri, Sarawak – 28 October 2026 – From recognising financial scams and managing debt to planning for retirement and exploring careers in financial services, more than 300 participants gained practical insights into navigating today’s financial landscape at Financial Literacy Day 2026, held at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia).

Organised by Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Business in collaboration with the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), the full-day programme brought together students, educators, industry professionals and members of the Miri community to promote financial wellbeing, responsible decision-making and career readiness.

The event attracted participants from Curtin Malaysia, Riam Road Secondary School, SMK Pujut, Riam Institute of Technology, i-CATS University College and Sarawak Skills, alongside members of the public. Leading financial and industry organisations also took part, including EPF, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK), the Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC), RHB Bank, PMG Healthcare and Top Glove.

Through a series of informative talks by representatives from EPF, BNM and AKPK, participants explored essential financial skills, including responsible borrowing, the importance of starting retirement savings early, and practical strategies for recognising and avoiding financial scams.

These sessions highlighted the importance of developing sound financial habits early in life, enabling individuals to make more informed decisions about their money, prepare for future financial commitments and better protect themselves against financial risks.

A key highlight of the programme was the industry forum, “Future Ready: Building a Career in Malaysia’s Financial Services Industry,” which connected participants with industry leaders to explore career prospects in the sector.

The panel featured Tuan Haji Mohammad bin Che Rus, Director of EPF Sarawak; Muhammad Syamil bin Kamaruzzaman, Manager of BNM Sarawak Region; and Chang Kwang Cheat, Chairman of the MFPC Sarawak Chapter.

The speakers shared perspectives on career pathways in financial services, evolving industry expectations and the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing professional environment. The discussion also provided participants with a clearer understanding of how financial knowledge, professional competencies and adaptability can support their future career development.

Beyond the talks and forum, more than ten interactive exhibition booths hosted by industry partners offered opportunities to explore financial services, products and potential career pathways. Faculty of Business academics also conducted engaging finance-related activities, translating financial concepts into accessible, hands-on learning experiences.

In his welcoming address, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, emphasised the importance of equipping young people and the wider community with the knowledge and confidence to make sound financial decisions.

“Financial literacy is an essential life skill. Through collaborations with organisations such as EPF and engagement with leading financial institutions, Curtin Malaysia is creating opportunities for our students and the wider community to gain practical knowledge that extends beyond the classroom,” he said.

Professor Pauline Ho, Dean of the Faculty of Business, echoed the importance of collaboration in advancing financial education, student development and community engagement. In her closing remarks, she expressed appreciation to EPF, participating institutions, industry partners, speakers, staff and students whose contributions helped make the programme possible.

The event also provided an opportunity for Curtin Malaysia and EPF to explore potential future collaborations in financial education, student development and community outreach, building on their shared commitment to expanding financial knowledge and creating a positive community impact.

Chaired by Dr. Ivy Hii, Associate Dean (External Engagement), the organising committee comprised Dr. Dhanuskodi Rengasamy, Wendy Law, Dr. Lynn Ling, Dr. Tanusree Chakravarty Mukherjee and other Faculty of Business staff members. Student involvement was also integral to the programme, with the Institute of Marketing Malaysia Student Chapter (IMMSC) supporting promotional activities and the Curtin Finance and Investment Club (CFIC) assisting with event operations.

Financial Literacy Day 2026 underscores Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to connecting education with industry expertise and community needs. By creating opportunities for participants to learn directly from financial professionals and engage with practical financial concepts, the university continues to support the development of financially informed individuals who are better prepared to navigate their personal finances, pursue career opportunities and make decisions with greater confidence.

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

Participants pose for a group photograph with representatives from participating financial institutions and industry organisations.

Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen presents a token of appreciation to Tuan Haji Mohammad bin Che Rus, Director of EPF Sarawak.

Participants engage with the opening session delivered by Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen.

Participants explore interactive exhibition booths featuring financial-sector and industry partners.

From left: Dr Ivy Hii, Professor Pauline Ho, Phang Kar Yew, Professor Vincent Lee, Tuan Haji Mohammad bin Che Rus, Muhammad Syamil bin Kamaruzzaman, Ameza Afifah of AKPK and Andy anak Jonathan Achil of EPF following the presentation of tokens of appreciation.