Curtin Malaysia hosts 2nd Borneo Infrastructure Symposium 2024, advancing Borneo’s Future with sustainable infrastructure

Miri, Sarawak – 15 December 2024 – Over 100 stakeholders from Sarawak, Sabah, Brunei, and Indonesia converged at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) for the highly anticipated 2nd Borneo Infrastructure Symposium on 13 December 2024, an event dedicated to shaping the future of sustainable infrastructure across the Borneo region.

Organised by Curtin Malaysia in collaboration with the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Miri Branch, the symposium served as a platform for collaboration and innovation, uniting the international delegates and speakers with representatives from Sarawak’s Public Works Department (JKR), Sarawak Energy Berhad, LAKU Management Sdn. Bhd.;  local councils, and a host of industry leaders, consultants, and contractors.

The symposium was officiated by Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister of Works, Malaysia, who lauded the event as a landmark initiative. In his keynote address, he underscored the vital role of sustainable infrastructure in driving progress and connectivity throughout Borneo, bridging gaps between urban and rural development.

“This symposium’s theme, ‘Sustainable Infrastructure Development for Borneo,’ reflects our commitment to ensuring resilient and equitable infrastructure for all Malaysians,” remarked Dato Sri Alexander. “Our priorities align with Wawasan Kemakmuran Negara 2030, which emphasises reducing disparities between Peninsular and East Malaysia, with Borneo as a central focus for inclusive growth.”

The minister highlighted the adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a game-changer in Malaysia’s infrastructure development. He revealed that by 2025, 80 per cent of projects valued at RM10 million and above will integrate BIM, a cutting-edge digital tool to improve efficiency and sustainability.

He also emphasised workforce development through initiatives like the myBIM Centre and strategic collaborations with local universities, which aim to equip professionals with digital expertise. “Innovation is key to building a future-ready Borneo,” he asserted.

In his opening address, Professor Vincent Lee, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor of Curtin Malaysia, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to creating impact through research, education, and industry engagement.

“Curtin Malaysia thrives on interdisciplinary innovation, and we are proud to contribute to Sarawak’s vision for a sustainable future. Through our engineering programmes, applied research, and community initiatives, we aim to uplift both urban and rural communities while preserving the natural heritage of Borneo,” he said.

The event also featured distinguished guests including Datuk Dr. Jerip Anak Susil, Deputy Minister for Transport Sarawak (Aviation and Road), representing Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Minister for Transport Sarawak; Datuk Haji Ismawi Haji Ismuni, Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA); Ir. Professor Dr. Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin, President of IEM Malaysia; Dr. Ir. Resdiansyah, Senior Advisor, Infrastructure and Regional Development, Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Indonesia; Ir. Chin Lee Tuck, Chairman, Engineer Division, The Institution of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects Brunei (PUJA); Sharon Chong Pau Fang, Chief Operating Officer of Curtin Malaysia; and Ir. Meheron Selowara Joo, Chairman of IEM Miri Branch and symposium organising chair.

The 2^nd Borneo Infrastructure Symposium not only provided a forum for high-level discussions on regional infrastructure priorities but also fostered meaningful exchanges among industry leaders, academics, and policymakers. From innovative solutions for rural connectivity to advancing digitalization in construction, the event reinforced the collective vision of a sustainable and inclusive Borneo.

Ir. Meheron commented that the event was special as it served as a perfect finale to the series of events marking Curtin Malaysia’s 25th Anniversary this year. “The success of the symposium was a fitting way to celebrate this milestone,” he said.

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Symposium delegates listen attentively as Dato Sri Alexander delivers his keynote address as guest of honour

(From right) Chong, Ir. Meheron, Ir. Prof Dr. Chiang, Alexander, Dr. Jerip, Prof. Lee and Ismawi launching the symposium