Curtin Malaysia engineering students gain firsthand insight into sustainable concrete production at Best Quality Batching

Miri, Sarawak – 21 April 2025 – A group of aspiring engineers from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently stepped out of the classroom and into the real world of construction materials manufacturing during an immersive site visit to Best Quality Batching Sdn Bhd (BQB), one of Miri’s leading producers of ready-mix and precast concrete.

 The visit, which brought together students from the Civil and Environmental Engineering programmes, offered an invaluable opportunity to witness concrete production processes up close and explore how sustainability and innovation are transforming the industry.

Accompanied by lecturers Dr. Haider Hamad Ghayeb and Dr. Muhammad Noor Hazwan Jusoh, the students were keen to apply theoretical knowledge from their units – Civil Engineering Construction Materials and Environmental Consideration in Construction – to a real industrial setting.

 “This kind of hands-on learning experience is critical,” said Dr. Haider. “Students not only learn how concrete is mixed and tested but also appreciate the rigorous quality standards required in the construction industry.”

 During the visit, the students observed the entire batching process, from raw material selection and proportioning to mixing, testing, and delivery. They explored BQB’s high-tech production systems, including automated silos, conveyors, and mixing units, and were given a detailed overview of the company’s robust quality control procedures.

Beyond the technical aspects, the visit emphasised BQB’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The students learned about eco-friendly practices such as truck washout water management, concrete waste recycling, and the company’s use of precast concrete – an increasingly popular solution in sustainable construction due to its reduced material waste and improved efficiency.

“We believe it is vital for future engineers to understand the broader environmental implications of construction,” said Dr. Hazwan. “Seeing sustainable practices in action reinforces what they learn in class and shows them how they can contribute to a greener future.”

BQB Manager Victor Lee personally welcomed the students and led the tour of the plant’s operations.

“This is where theory meets practice,” he said. “We’re proud to support the development of young engineers by giving them a closer look at the industry’s inner workings, especially in areas like precast concrete that are key to the future of sustainable construction.”

The visit also served as a platform for professional development. The students had the chance to engage directly with BQB engineers and technical staff, gaining insight into career opportunities and the essential soft skills needed in today’s fast-evolving construction landscape.

This visit underscored Curtin Malaysia’s strong ties with industry partners and its commitment to equipping students with real-world knowledge and skills. As the demand grows for environmentally conscious and technically proficient engineers, such experiences are shaping the next generation of leaders in civil and environmental engineering.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit its website at curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Group photo of BQB staff members with Curtin Malaysia students

Victor Lee (second from left) explains to students the processes behind precast concrete production

Dr. Haider guides students through a demonstration of raw construction materials at the plant