Curtin Malaysia engineering students gain valuable insights at Sarawak Energy’s Miri Power Station

Miri, Sarawak – 14 October 2025 – A group of Electrical and Computer Engineering students from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently visited the Miri Power Station, operated by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), as part of their experiential learning programme aimed at bridging classroom theory with real-world industry practice.

The visit offered students an exclusive look into the operations of the state’s main energy provider, which manages the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity throughout Sarawak. It also underscored SEB’s commitment to supporting talent development and promoting sustainability in the state’s energy landscape.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by Factory Manager Samuel Tang Kah Hung and Senior Maintenance Manager Donny Yong Ing Siew who shared an overview of the Miri Power Station’s vital role in powering the region. They also discussed SEB’s ongoing efforts to maintain reliable electricity supply while integrating sustainable and innovative energy practices to meet growing demand.

During the guided technical tour, experts Emir Imran Tan and Abang Mohd Yazid walked the students through the station’s key components, including the combustion chamber, gas turbines, and power generators. The students had the opportunity to observe these systems in operation and gain a clearer understanding of how energy is produced and managed on an industrial scale.

A highlight of the visit was the tour of the electrical control room, where the students were introduced to the advanced monitoring and automation systems that control electricity generation and distribution across Sarawak’s grid.

Third-year student Ethan Wong described the visit as “an eye-opening experience,” adding, “Seeing how the power plant operates in real time helped me appreciate the complexity and precision involved in energy generation. It gave me a deeper respect for the engineers working tirelessly to keep our lights on.”

Dr. Siaw Teck Ung, lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, said the visit provided invaluable learning for students. “This was an exceptional opportunity for our students to deepen their understanding of power system protection and real-world energy operations. It helped them connect theoretical concepts with the practical realities of maintaining reliable power systems.”

Echoing his sentiment, Dr. Wong Kiing Ing, a senior lecturer, highlighted the broader impact of such industry collaborations. “Site visits like this expand our students’ perspectives beyond the classroom. By engaging directly with energy professionals, they gain insights into the evolving demands of the power sector and develop a clearer sense of where they can contribute as future engineers.”

The visit was part of Curtin Malaysia’s continuous efforts to ensure its Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) (Honours) programme – accredited by Engineers Australia (EA) and the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) – remains closely aligned with industry standards. Through such engagements, students graduate with the skills, experience, and mindset needed to excel in the fast-changing energy and technology sectors.

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Curtin Malaysia students and lecturers with representatives from Sarawak Energy Berhad.