Curtin Malaysia helps Foundation students overcome maths anxiety through intensive enhancement camp

Miri, Sarawak – 14 January 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently boosted student confidence and academic performance by equipping 59 foundation students with essential mathematical skills at its Math Enhancement Camp.

Organised by the School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE) and supported by the Curtin Malaysia Teaching Support Fund 2025, the one-day intensive camp brought together students from the Foundation in Commerce and Foundation in Engineering & Science programmes at Curtin Malaysia.

The initiative was designed to address a common challenge faced by incoming students: gaps in additional mathematics knowledge that often hinder progress in core university units.

The camp focused on strengthening conceptual understanding of traditionally challenging topics such as Exponents, Logarithms, Differentiation and Integration, while also sharpening the students’ ability to apply formulas accurately and confidently in problem-solving situations.

According to camp lead organiser Associate Teaching Fellow Puteri Nurul Fatihah Mohamad Azli, the programme was developed in response to growing concerns over students’ anxiety and lack of confidence in mathematics.

“We noticed that many students were held back not by lack of effort, but by weak foundations in additional mathematics,” she said. “This often affected their confidence and overall academic performance. Our aim was to rebuild those foundations and help students approach mathematical problems with clarity rather than fear.”

Puteri Nurul Fatihah was supported by SPACE academics Jameson Malang, Dr. Anita Jimmie, and Fifi Liew Ee En in delivering the programme.

The session was facilitated by acclaimed mathematics educator Voon Fui Yen from Sekolah Menengah (SM) Sains Miri, who is widely recognised for her ability to simplify complex concepts. Through clear, step-by-step explanations and practical strategies, she guided students in breaking down problems and understanding the logic behind mathematical principles.

Student response to the camp was overwhelmingly positive, with participants highlighting the engaging delivery, hands-on activities and supportive learning environment. Many reported a significant improvement in their confidence and readiness to tackle complex mathematical questions in their upcoming coursework.

The Math Enhancement Camp reflects Curtin Malaysia’s continued commitment to student success through targeted, high-impact academic support initiatives that strengthen foundational skills, build confidence and prepare students for the demands of university study.

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

Students and organisers gather with guest facilitator Voon Fui Yen (front row, centre).

Voon Fui Yen guides students through a practical session to strengthen their mathematical understanding.

Participants collaborate during an interactive team activity.

Puteri Nurul Fatihah Mohamad Azli (right) presents a token of appreciation to facilitator.

Puteri Nurul Fatihah (right), Voon Fui Yen (left), and Jameson Malang (2nd right) congratulate the winning team of the interactive activity.