Curtin Malaysia engineering students gain first-hand insights into Sarawak’s power generation operations

Miri, Sarawak – 7 November 2026 – Getting a first-hand look at the engineering systems that keep electricity flowing across Sarawak gave 20 Electrical and Electronic Engineering students from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) valuable insights into the realities of working in the energy sector during a recent educational visit to Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB).

The visit offered the students an opportunity to connect engineering principles learned in the classroom with their practical applications in power generation, while gaining a deeper understanding of the technologies and operational processes involved in maintaining a reliable electricity supply.

The students were welcomed by SEB Maintenance Engineer (M&E) Emir Imran Tan and his team, who provided an overview of the company’s operations and its role in supporting Sarawak’s electricity supply. The briefing also introduced the students to the engineering considerations and operational requirements involved in ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient performance of power-generation facilities.

During the technical sessions, the students explored the workings of electrical machines, power drives and industrial control systems, with particular attention given to excitation and speed control systems. They learned how these systems regulate generator voltage and speed, and contribute to the stable operation of electrical machines.

The sessions also covered the monitoring, control and electrical protection technologies used in power-generation environments, demonstrating how these interconnected systems help maintain operational safety, stability and reliability.

A guided walkabout of the facility further brought the learning experience to life, allowing the students to observe electrical machines, industrial control equipment and associated supporting systems up close. Seeing the equipment in operation helped them better appreciate how engineering concepts translate into practical industrial applications.

Final-year student Kam Shiew Hui described the visit as a valuable opportunity to deepen her understanding of power-generation technologies and their practical applications.

“Seeing the equipment and control systems first-hand helped me connect what I have learned in class with actual industrial applications. I now have a better understanding of how electrical machines, excitation systems and industrial control technologies work together in real-world power-generation operations,” she said.

Dr. Siaw Teck Ung, a lecturer in Curtin Malaysia’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, said industry exposure was an important component of engineering education, enabling students to appreciate the practical complexities of engineering systems beyond their theoretical foundations.

“Industrial exposure is essential in engineering education as it allows students to move beyond theoretical understanding and appreciate how engineering systems are implemented and managed in practice. This visit provided valuable insights into electrical machines, control systems and protection technologies, which are particularly relevant to their engineering studies,” he said.

Dr. Chew Ing Ming, Head of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Dr. Nur Afida Binti Muhammad, who also accompanied the students, highlighted the importance of sustained engagement with industry in ensuring graduates develop the technical competencies and practical awareness needed to meet evolving professional demands.

The visit reflects Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to providing industry-relevant, experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for the demands of the engineering profession. It also reinforces the value of university-industry collaboration in strengthening the connection between academic learning and industry practice.

Curtin Malaysia’s Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Honours) programme is accredited by Engineers Australia and the Board of Engineers Malaysia, reflecting its alignment with recognised professional engineering standards. Through academic learning complemented by industry engagement, the programme seeks to equip graduates with the knowledge, practical skills and professional capabilities to contribute to the rapidly evolving energy and technology sectors.

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 Electrical and Electronic Engineering students and accompanying lecturers during their educational visit to Sarawak Energy Berhad.