Curtin Malaysia outreach inspires SMK Subis students to pursue higher education

Miri, Sarawak – 20 April 2026 – More than 200 Form Five students at SMK Subis gained fresh inspiration for their future as Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) brought its Empowerment Beyond Campus Outreach Programme to the school.

Held at the school’s request, the half-day programme engaged 203 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates, offering them valuable insights into higher education pathways and opportunities available after their exams.

Leading the session was Samson Philip, Manager of Student Recruitment and Conversion (Campus and Online) at Curtin Malaysia, who highlighted academic options and shed light on the Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), a key initiative expanding access to higher education.

“Curtin Malaysia is committed to working alongside the government to ensure every student, regardless of background, has access to quality education,” he said, emphasising the importance of outreach efforts in rural communities.

He further noted that the Empowerment Beyond Campus Outreach Programme is collaboration of Future students and external engagement and Student Experience team which an involvement of staff, orientation leaders, student mentors and international students and this is reflects Curtin Malaysia’s ongoing support for government initiatives in the education sector, reinforcing the university’s role as a key player in promoting educational equity and accessibility in the region.

Students responded enthusiastically, particularly to the opportunities offered through FTES. Louis Fabiano Fedrick Anak Harry expressed keen interest in pursuing his studies at Curtin Malaysia, while Nelson Janting Anak Kayong described FTES as “a great initiative” for Sarawak students seeking access to private universities.

For others, the experience went beyond academics. Hosea Lian Jayfrienz Jeffery Kila and Martina Machanda Anak Ujai were inspired by Curtin Malaysia’s multicultural environment, describing it as a vibrant space for cultural exchange and personal growth.

The programme not only introduced students to pathways in higher education but also reinforced Curtin Malaysia’s role in advancing educational equity and opportunity across Sarawak.

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

Curtin Malaysia volunteers with teachers and Form Five students of SMK Subis.

Samson Philip sharing information on FTES and academic pathways.

Students participating in teamwork activities.

Louis expressed a strong desire to learn more about opportunities available at Curtin Malaysia.

Nelson emphasised the importance of the FTES in providing educational opportunities for students.

Hosea Lian enjoyed the positive culture at Curtin Malaysia.

Martina described Curtin Malaysia as a vibrant social hub with students from multiple countries.