Curtin Malaysia students receive laptops from Sarawak Unity Education Fund to boost academic success

Miri – 4 March 2025 – Ten Sarawakian students at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) are celebrating a significant boost to their academic journeys after receiving brand-new laptops from the Sarawak Unity Education Fund (SUEF) yesterday. This initiative, aimed at supporting students from financially challenged backgrounds, underscores the Fund’s commitment to empowering Sarawak’s youth through education.

The recipients – Mcdouglas Apo anak Sigan, Alvin anak Elias Lipi, Gail Brittany Jalloq anak Melana, Deniellson Kays anak Davy, Kathy Janameyr binti Aban, Kimverly anak Wilson Maja, Kiara Wilson anak Rabiah, Bryan Au Ah Guan, Grace Ong See Hui, and Dylan Chu Wei Hong – can now pursue their studies with greater ease and confidence, equipped with essential digital tools for learning in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, who is also chair of Curtin Malaysia’s management committee, presented the laptops to the students during a special ceremony at Curtin Malaysia’s Council Room. The event was attended by Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Professor Vincent Lee, Chief Operating Officer Sharon Chong, Student Services Manager Audrey Ruby Palance, and Faculty Deans Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu, Professor Pauline Ho, and Associate Professor Fidella Tiew.

Dato Sri Lee expressed deep appreciation to SUEF for its continued support in advancing education in Sarawak. “The donation of these laptops is a powerful statement of SUEF’s dedication to nurturing young Sarawakians. By ensuring that students from financially challenged backgrounds have access to the tools they need, SUEF is actively shaping the future of our state’s workforce,” he said.

Founded nearly two years ago, SUEF has pledged and raised RM3.6 million to provide scholarships and financial aid to underprivileged students, regardless of race, as long as they meet university admission requirements. The laptop donation is one of its major initiatives, reinforcing its mission to enhance educational accessibility.

Dato Sri Lee also acknowledged the Medical Awareness Camp Outreach (MACO), a national NGO that contributed the laptops, for its unwavering commitment to educational empowerment. “MACO’s impact on education is remarkable. Having donated over 7,000 laptops to more than 300 schools nationwide, they have been a beacon of hope for students across Malaysia. Their partnership in this initiative is truly commendable,” he said.

Looking ahead, he emphasised how such contributions align with Sarawak’s broader economic vision. “With the rise of the digital economy and green technology sectors, these students will now be better prepared for the careers of the future. By investing in education, we are investing in the long-term success of Sarawak,” he added.

 For more information, visit Curtin Malaysia’s website at curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Dato Sri Lee (6th right), Professor Vincent Lee (on Lee’s left), Chong (3rd right), Audrey (back row, 2nd left) and Faculty Deans in group photo with the students