Curtin Malaysia students gain valuable insights at PRESTIGE 2024

Miri, Sarawak – 13 December 2024 – Six engineering students from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently showcased their potential as future industry leaders by participating in the renowned Programme on Energy Sustainability & Transition and Insights to Graduate Engineers (PRESTIGE) 2024.

Organised by the Malaysian Gas Association (MGA), the three-day event in Kuching empowered students to explore Malaysia’s energy transition landscape and the critical role of natural gas in shaping a sustainable future. The event featured an engaging mix of technical visits, team-building activities, expert-led talks, and thought-provoking discussions.

Representing Curtin Malaysia were mechanical engineering student Edison Lau Hong Jung, electrical and electronic engineering student Lai Yong Jun, environmental engineering student Lie Zhi Xuan, and chemical and energy engineering students Eunice Chieng Jing Min, Joey Choo Wen Jie, and Lester Chang Shi Yang.

The event kicked off with an introduction to MGA and its mission to promote the sustainable growth of Malaysia’s gas industry by advocating for natural gas as a clean and efficient energy source.

This was followed by a technical visit to the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) Project at the Kuching Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) Assembly Facility. Here, the students witnessed cutting-edge hydrogen-powered transportation technology, gaining first-hand exposure to sustainable energy solutions that could redefine urban mobility.

“Seeing the hydrogen-powered ART in action was a powerful reminder of how innovation can address modern energy challenges,” remarked Lie Zhi Xuan.

Day two emphasised teamwork and leadership as the participants from Curtin Malaysia joined peers from the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) for collaborative activities.

Highlights included talks by MGA’s secretary-general and the principal assistant director of the Ministry of Economy’s Energy Division on the inevitability of energy transition and the pivotal role of natural gas in future-proofing industries, a fireside chat session with a representative from PETROS, and a Fresh Ideas Night, where students showcased sustainability-themed performances, fostering creativity and cross-institutional camaraderie.

A highlight of PRESTIGE 2024 on day three was a series of inspiring talks and panel discussions featuring industry heavyweights from PPT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP), ExxonMobil, Sarawak Shell Berhad, Petronas, and MGA. Key topics included the value of adaptability and integrity in professional settings. Students engaged with thought-provoking questions, gaining deeper insights into ethical challenges in the energy sector.

Lester Chang shared, “The sessions inspired me to embrace resilience and remain confident in the face of challenges, while staying true to my values.”

Eunice Chieng highlighted the importance of ethics, stating, “Shortcuts may seem tempting, but integrity ensures peace of mind and long-term recognition.”

Accompanying lecturer Adrian Tiong Chiong Yuh lauded the programme for bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice. “PRESTIGE 2024 equipped the students with practical skills and industry insights, preparing them to navigate the complexities of energy transition,” he said.

The students echoed his sentiments, with Edison Lau emphasising adaptability, teamwork, and the courage to seize unexpected opportunities. “Opportunities often come from the least expected places. Staying open to new challenges is key,” he reflected.

Curtin Malaysia’s participation in PRESTIGE 2024 underscores its dedication to producing industry-ready graduates equipped to tackle global challenges. This transformative experience not only expanded the students’ technical knowledge but also fostered essential soft skills such as collaboration, leadership, and ethical decision-making.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia’s engineering programmes and industry collaborations, curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok.

Curtin Malaysia students, accompanied by their lecturer, experience the hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) at the Kuching ART Assembly Facility

Team-building activities unite students from Curtin Malaysia, UTS, UNIMAS, and UiTM

(Seated, from left) Chieng, Chang, Choo, Tiong, Lau, Lai, and Lie display certificates and commemorative plaque from MGA at event’s conclusion