Curtin Malaysia empowers over 200 SMK Luar Bandar Miri students through hands-on learning

Miri, Sarawak – 8 May 2026 – More than 200 students from SMK Luar Bandar Miri experienced a dynamic day of hands-on learning through Curtin University Malaysia’s outreach initiative, ‘Bridging Classrooms and Communities: A Community-Engaged Learning Project.’

Guided by Jameson Malang, Senior Teaching Fellow from the Science and Technology Department at Curtin Malaysia’s School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE), the programme blended academic knowledge with real-world application.

A key highlight was the Financial Literacy Workshop under the Curtin Malaysia Community Engagement (CMCE) Project, where students learned money management through the interactive ‘Human Monopoly’ game before applying their knowledge in a simulated mini-mart.

The event also featured a STEM showcase by the Curtin Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Student Section, with engaging demonstrations such as biobatteries, gear mechanisms, and a multidirectional car, sparking interest in engineering careers.

Students further benefited from the SuCCESS Math Workshop, led by nine mentors focusing on problem-solving skills, as well as a Photography Workshop conducted by Curtin media students under the guidance of Peter Jamba anak Ental.

“The Monopoly programme provided a fun learning experience while helping us develop skills to make wise decisions,” said Form 5 student Aryan Rayes anak Ronie.

Curtin student volunteer Tasneem Atifa binti Nordin highlighted the programme’s impact, noting that it strengthened her communication skills while making learning more meaningful through real community engagement.

Organised with support from SPACE, including associate teaching fellows Susana Tiew Hung Hsia and Christie Liaw Shin Ling, the initiative stood out for its practical approach, allowing students to immediately apply financial knowledge in a real-life scenario.

The programme also provided Curtin Malaysia students with opportunities to develop essential soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, and adaptability. The organising team extended appreciation to SMK Luar Bandar Miri’s teachers, including Imelda Anak Baran and Eliane Choo Yuan Syn, as well as IEM-Young Engineers Section (YES) Miri Branch and chairman Lim Chuan Jet for their strong support.

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

Curtin Malaysia team with SMK Luar Bandar Miri students and teachers.

Peter Jamba leading the photography workshop.

SuCCESS mentors engaging students in mathematics activities.

Curtin student volunteer facilitating the financial literacy session.