Curtin Malaysia strengthens community bonds with drug awareness event, launching new outreach projects

Miri, Sarawak – 29 August 2024 – Demonstrating a firm commitment to uplifting underserved communities, the Community Outreach team of Curtin University Malaysia’s Corporate Affairs Department hosted a significant event in collaboration with Kenosis Sarawak, Miri, a leading non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on drug rehabilitation, yesterday.

The event, titled ‘Quit Drugs: A Journey of Transformation’, marked a crucial step in the university’s ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse while paving the way for a series of impactful community outreach initiatives.

The event brought together Curtin Malaysia students, staff, and representatives from Kenosis Sarawak, Miri and project partner Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) for an enlightening and deeply moving session. They included Curtin Malaysia’s Community Outreach Manager Suwapa Jitman; Senior Engineer for SEB’s Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES) Division Gregory Daud Rubin; SEB Senior Engineer Claudia Magdeline Serawa Anak Petrus; Kenosis Sarawak, Miri Director of Operations Pastor Robert Danor, and Assistant Director of Operations Pastor Roy Agan.

Held at Curtin Malaysia’s  Lecture Theatre Foyer, the event emphasised the importance of rejecting drug addiction, while also showcasing Curtin Malaysia’s broader commitment to empowering communities.

The Guest of Honour, Telang Usan Assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau, praised Curtin Malaysia’s active role in raising awareness of drug abuse. “Curtin Malaysia’s community outreach efforts are commendable, and I hope they will expand further into rural areas where drug abuse continues to have devastating effects,” he said.

In a generous gesture of support, Dennis also announced the donation of five sets of double-decker beds to Kenosis Sarawak, Miri, helping to improve living conditions for those undergoing rehabilitation.

Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to the community extends beyond just awareness campaigns. The university has launched several initiatives aimed at directly benefiting Kenosis Sarawak. Recently, Curtin Malaysia partnered with SEB to install solar-powered lighting at the Kenosis Sarawak, Miri  centre at Tanjong Lobang. This project, which saw the installation of ten pillar solar lights, is a shining example of how sustainable solutions can bring hope and renewal to vulnerable communities.

“Our outreach work is driven by the belief that everyone deserves a second chance,” said Suwapa. “Our collaboration with Kenosis Sarawak, Miri is about more than just providing material support; it is about bringing light and hope to those affected by addiction.”

Suwapa also revealed that Curtin Malaysia is planning another major project aimed at addressing inadequate sanitation at the Kenosis Sarawak, Miri centre, where 26 students and staff currently share limited toilet facilities. Students from the university will play a key role in designing new, modern sanitation facilities, providing both practical support and a platform for sustainable design innovation. This initiative has the potential to set a new standard for rural sanitation, benefiting communities far beyond Kenosis.

The event was further enriched by powerful testimonials from two Kenosis Sarawak, Miri  students, Veron Udau Lian and Joshua Paren, who bravely shared their personal stories of recovery. Their journeys from drug addiction to a renewed sense of purpose inspired everyone in attendance, highlighting the profound impact of the work being done by Kenosis Sarawak, Miri and its supporters.

In keeping with its mission to improve living conditions for those in need, Curtin Malaysia also contributed essential electrical items to Kenosis Sarawak, Miri. The donation included wall fans, exhaust fans, and industrial fans, all aimed at enhancing the comfort and well-being of Kenosis Sarawak, Miri residents as they rebuild their lives.

This event not only showcased Curtin Malaysia’s proactive stance in addressing critical social issues but also highlighted its long-term vision for creating lasting change in the community. By engaging local stakeholders and students in meaningful outreach projects, Curtin Malaysia is leading the way in demonstrating the power of education and compassion to transform lives.

With more outreach initiatives on the horizon, Curtin Malaysia is steadfast in its mission to bring positive change to Miri and beyond, ensuring that underserved communities receive the support and attention they deserve. Curtin Malaysia’s Community Outreach team can be contacted at +60 85 530100 ext. 2674, or by email at corporateaffairs@curtin.edu.my.

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

Suwapa (2nd right) presents a memento to Dato Dennis, witnessed by Gregory Daud Rubin (right) and Pastor Roy Agan

Pastor Roy Agan (5th left) receives a contribution of essential electrical items from Curtin Malaysia, with Dato Dennis (4th left) and others

(Front row, 2nd right) Pastor Roy, Gregory, Suwapa, Dato Dennis, Pastor Robert, and Claudia join Kenosis students, Curtin Malaysia staff, and students for a group photo

Kenosis students perform a fusion of traditional Iban and Kenyah dances

Veron Udau Lian shares his journey of overcoming drug addiction

Joshua Paren encourages youth to steer clear of drugs to protect their future

Suwapa (front row, 5th from right) and Corporate Communications Officer Norni Mahadi in group photo with Kenosis team and parents