Curtin Malaysia mechanical engineering students make field trip to Bakun Hydroelectric Dam

Miri – 7 August 2023 – Student members of the IMechE (Institution of Mechanical Engineers) Student Chapter of Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently embarked on an enlightening field trip to the Bakun Hydroelectric Dam, showcasing their dedication to practical learning and expanding their knowledge in the field of renewable energy.

The excursion offered the participating students a unique opportunity to witness firsthand one of Malaysia’s largest energy infrastructure projects. The Bakun Hydroelectric Dam, owned and operated by Sarawak Energy Berhad and located on the Balui River some 60 kilometres east of Belaga, has a generating capacity of 2,400 megawatts and plays a substantial role in Malaysia’s efforts towards sustainable energy production.

The field trip also included a stopover at Niah National Park and visits to some traditional longhouses in the area, followed by an overnight stay in Bintulu and taking in the local attractions there before proceeding to the dam. This gave the students a more profound educational experience.

At the Bakun Hydroelectric Dam, the students had the privilege of interacting with industry experts and engineers involved in the project during a briefing on arrival. They gained valuable insights into the dam’s design, construction process, and operation, allowing them to gain a deep understanding of the technical aspects related to hydroelectric power generation.

This was followed by a tour of the facility, beginning with the imposing 205-metre tall dam itself. The group then visited the power plant, which gave them a better understanding of how the kinetic energy of the water is converted into mechanical energy and consequently electrical energy by the turbines and generators there.

The group also learned about the environmental impact of hydroelectric power generation from the engineers at the plant. They explained that while hydroelectric power is a clean and renewable source of energy, it can still have a negative impact on the environment as dams can alter the natural flow of rivers, which in turn can affect fish populations and other aquatic life. The students learned that there are ongoing efforts by Sarawak Energy to minimise the impact on the environment, including the use of fish ladders and other measures to help fish navigate around the dam.

Kenneth Lim, president of the IMechE Student Chapter, remarked that the immersive experience was aimed at bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation, aligning with Curtin Malaysia’s vision of producing well-rounded graduates equipped with industry-relevant skills and expertise. By witnessing a real-world engineering marvel like the Bakun Hydroelectric Dam, the students were able to appreciate the complexities and challenges faced by engineers in the field.

The field trip’s organising chairperson Law Jiun Hong said the visit was a valuable learning experience for the student chapter members. He said it gave them a greater understanding of how hydroelectric power is generated and distributed, as well as its environmental impacts.

“Our group left the plant with a newfound appreciation of the complexity of hydroelectric power generation and the importance of responsible energy consumption,” he said.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Law Ming Chiat of Curtin Malaysia’s Department of Mechanical Engineering who accompanied the students, also expressed satisfaction in the field trip, stating, “At Curtin Malaysia, we prioritise hands-on learning experiences to complement our curriculum. By visiting the Bakun Hydroelectric Dam, our students gained a comprehensive understanding of renewable energy technologies, fostering their passion for sustainable engineering practices.”

He added that the success of the trip was thanks to support from Minister for Transport and chairman of Curtin Malaysia’s management committee Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew,  Mayor of Miri Adam Yii Siew Sang, and the Curtin Malaysia Student Council.

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The students attending a briefing by members of the Bakun Hydroelectric Dam management team

Posing for a group photo at the top of the dam

Another group photo taken at the base of the dam

Kenneth Lim (left) presenting a momento to Bakun Dam Maintenance Manager while Law Jiun Hong looks on