Curtin Malaysia equips HDR students for research success and timely graduation

Miri, Sarawak – 16 June 2026 – As postgraduate research enrolments continue to grow and research excellence becomes increasingly vital to national development, the Faculty of Engineering and Science at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is taking proactive steps to ensure its Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates are well-positioned for success.

In line with its commitment to fostering research excellence and supporting Graduate on Time (GOT) outcomes, FOES recently organised an HDR Engagement Session that brought together 27 postgraduate engineering and science students for an intensive briefing on the expectations, requirements, and opportunities that shape a successful research journey.

Held on 26 May, the session provided candidates with valuable insights into the faculty’s research ecosystem, academic quality assurance standards, candidature progression requirements, postgraduate milestone presentations, thesis submission procedures, and practical strategies to help them complete their studies within the stipulated timeframe.

The initiative reflects Curtin Malaysia’s broader commitment to nurturing highly skilled researchers capable of addressing complex real-world challenges through innovative and impactful research.

Facilitated by Associate Dean of Research and Development, Professor Ir. Bridgid Chin Lai Fui, and HDR Programme Coordinator, Dr Timothy Ting Zhi Hong, the session guided students through key aspects of postgraduate research, including research expectations, academic milestones, quality assurance processes, and the support mechanisms available throughout their candidature.

Professor Chin highlighted the importance of early engagement and continuous support in helping students thrive in their research programmes.

“At the Faculty of Engineering and Science, we are committed to empowering our HDR candidates with the knowledge, guidance, and support they need to excel in their research, uphold the highest academic standards, and produce outcomes that create meaningful impact for industry and society,” she said.

Dean of the Faculty, Professor Raymond Chiong Choo Wee, emphasised that structured engagement initiatives play a crucial role in helping students navigate the demands of postgraduate research.

“Research degrees are intellectually rewarding but can also be challenging. By providing students with a clear understanding of expectations, milestones, and available support, we can enhance their confidence, strengthen their readiness, and improve their ability to achieve timely completion,” he remarked.

Curtin Malaysia offers two HDR pathways: the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Both programmes are designed to develop advanced research competencies, critical thinking skills, and scholarly excellence through independent and original research.

The MPhil programme enables candidates to deepen their expertise through substantial independent investigation that culminates in a research thesis, while the PhD programme focuses on generating new knowledge, advancing theories, and developing innovative solutions to contemporary challenges through original research.

Both programmes conclude with the submission of a research thesis that is assessed for originality, scholarly contribution, and research capability. The MPhil can be completed in two years full-time or four years part-time, while the PhD typically requires four years full-time or eight years part-time.

Through initiatives such as the HDR Engagement Session, Curtin Malaysia continues to strengthen its research culture by equipping postgraduate researchers with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to succeed academically, contribute to their fields of expertise, and make a lasting impact on society.

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

Professor Ir Bridgid Chin Lai Fui (front row, right) and Dr Timothy Ting Zhi Hong (second row, sixth right) with HDR students at the HDR Engagement Session.

Postgraduate students participating in the HDR Engagement Session.