Curtin Malaysia students gain real-world insights during technical visit to EKDA Industries cement brick factory

Miri, Sarawak – 23 October 2024 – Construction management students from Curtin University Malaysia’s Department of Built Environment, Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, recently took their classroom learning into the field with a hands-on visit to EKDA Industries (M) Sdn Bhd, a major cement brick factory in Taman Desa Senadin.

The technical site visit gave students an up-close look at the entire cement brick production process, helping them bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world practice.

The students were warmly welcomed by Leong Soon-Kian, owner of EKDA Industries, who personally guided them through the factory. Leong shared his expertise, offering an in-depth explanation of the brick-making process, from raw material selection to production and final inspection.

The visit was particularly valuable for the students as it was a unique opportunity to see how cement bricks are manufactured, and how different materials and production methods come together to create one of the most essential components of the construction industry.

During the two-hour visit, the students observed each stage of the production process, gaining a thorough understanding of the technical steps involved. They learned about the sourcing of materials and the importance of timing and consistency in the production line – knowledge essential for cost estimation and efficient project management in construction.

Praveena Muniandy, Associate Lecturer in the Department of Built Environment, highlighted the importance of such site visits, stating that practical experience like this provides students with the industry insight needed to succeed in their future careers.

Dr. Low Wai Wah, another faculty member accompanying the students, echoed this sentiment, emphasising that exposure to the operational side of construction gives students a competitive edge by deepening their understanding of supply chain dynamics and production methods.

This visit to EKDA Industries not only broadened the students’ perspective on material production but also reinforced Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to delivering industry-relevant education. By partnering with local industries, the university ensures that its students graduate with practical skills and a strong professional network.

Curtin Malaysia offers Curtin’s Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, a four-year honours course that focuses on two major disciplines – construction management and quantity surveying. Aligned with evolving industry demands of the IR4.0 and Sustainable development Goals (SDG) era, the course incorporates digitalisation and sustainability elements to ensure graduates remain at the forefront throughout their professional careers.

The course involves studying subjects relating to construction technology, quantity measurement and cost estimating, project planning and management, strategy and financial management, contract administration, building and construction law, cost planning and estimating, cost management, and Information technology (IT) in construction, including Building Information Modelling (BIM).

For more information on the Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, and other engineering and science courses at Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my/study/, or connect with Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Leong (9th from right) with Curtin Malaysia students and lecturers, including Dr. Low (front row, left) and Praveena (back row, left), during their visit to EKDA Industries