Curtin Malaysia engineering students explore Sarawak’s first GBI-certified green building

Miri, Sarawak – 31 August 2025 – In a step toward building the next generation of green engineers, around 40 engineering students from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently visited Miri City Hall – Sarawak’s first building certified under the prestigious Green Building Index (GBI).

The educational tour, led by Dr. Yong Leong Kong and supported by academic staff Ir. Meheron Selowara Joo, Professor Ir. Dr. Stephanie Chan Yen San, and Ir. Dr. Tan Yee Yong, gave the students firsthand exposure to sustainable building design and the growing importance of green infrastructure in urban development.

Miri Mayor, Adam Yii Siew Sang, warmly welcomed the Curtin Malaysia delegation, calling the visit a vital learning experience for the future of engineering. “This visit not only allows you to observe the environmentally friendly features of this building,” he said, “but also reflects Miri City Council’s vision to transform Miri into a Green, Smart, and Sustainable City.”

The students were given an in-depth presentation by Ts. Mohd. Ismail bin Yusuf of Miri City Council, who detailed the eco-friendly systems that earned the building its GBI certification. These include solar photovoltaic panels, rainwater harvesting systems, low Building Energy Intensity (BEI), energy-efficient lighting, and renewable energy integration – all designed to minimise carbon footprint and optimise energy usage.

Dr. Yong highlighted the importance of such immersive experiences in engineering education. “This visit bridges theory and practice, inspiring our students to become agents of sustainability and innovation. It reflects Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates with the expertise to lead in a rapidly evolving world,” he said.

Beyond its educational value, the visit also strengthened ties between Curtin Malaysia and Miri City Council, paving the way for future academia-industry collaborations in green technology and urban innovation.

Speaking during the closing session, Ir. Meheron Selowara Joo, who also serves as Chairman of The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM) Miri Branch, addressed the nation’s growing demand for skilled professionals. “Malaysia needs over 100,000 engineers to drive our green development goals. IEM is committed to supporting this vision by preparing engineers with the right mindset and skill set to lead the change.”

The visit ended with a clear takeaway: sustainability is no longer a future concept – it is a present-day imperative. And the responsibility to build greener cities lies with today’s students and tomorrow’s engineers.

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Miri Mayor Adam Yii (seated centre) with MCC staff, Curtin Malaysia academics, and students during the visit to Miri City Hall.