Curtin Malaysia, TVS explore partnership to prepare next generation of media talent

Miri, Sarawak – 5 August 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) and TVS are exploring a strategic partnership to equip the next generation of Sarawakian media professionals with industry-ready skills through internships, collaborative projects, and real-world learning opportunities.

The potential collaboration was discussed during a courtesy visit by a TVS delegation to Curtin Malaysia’s campus recently, where both parties shared a common vision of strengthening talent development in broadcasting, journalism, communication, digital media, and the creative industries.

The TVS delegation was led by its Chief Media Officer (CMO), Mohamad Sardon Zainal, and included Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications Sharif Surur Raihan, Senior Editor Syah Hairizal, and Special Officer Mohd. Faizal Aris.

Welcoming the delegation were Curtin Malaysia Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Professor Vincent Lee; Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu; Chief Operating Officer Sharon Chong; Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science Professor Raymond Chiong; Associate Dean of External Engagement at the School of Pre-U and Continuing Education Dr. Anita Jimmie; Interim Head of the Department of Media and Communication Terry Justin Dit; Corporate Affairs Manager Nicholas Leong; Manager of Careers and Alumni Relations Chin Li Yen; and academic staff.

In his welcoming remarks, Professor Lee said universities must work closely with industry partners to prepare graduates for an increasingly dynamic workforce.

“We thrive through partnerships, with government agencies, industry, professional bodies, community organisations, and the media,” he said. “These collaborations enrich student learning, strengthen research impact, and help us address real-world challenges.”

He commended TVS for its role in informing the public, celebrating Sarawak’s cultural diversity, and supporting the state’s development.

Professor Lee said both organisations could explore initiatives such as student internships, guest lectures by industry practitioners, collaborative research, and digital storytelling projects.

“Partnerships with organisations like TVS bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, ensuring our graduates leave university with both academic knowledge and industry experience,” he said.

Mohamad Sardon said TVS is committed to nurturing local talent and creating more opportunities for graduates to build careers in journalism, broadcasting, digital media, and the creative economy.

He noted that TVS has evolved beyond traditional broadcasting into a digital media platform offering opportunities in content creation, social media, advertising, and digital innovation.

“We want Curtin graduates to develop their talents in journalism, broadcasting, and the creative industry. TVS can also become a launchpad for young entrepreneurs interested in digital media and advertising,” he said.

He added that the proposed collaboration would focus strongly on digital content creation and social media, reflecting the rapid transformation of today’s media landscape.

As part of this effort, Mohamad Sardon said Curtin Malaysia media students could gain valuable hands-on experience by joining TVS’s coverage of the 2027 SEA Games, providing them with exposure to live broadcasting in a major international sporting event.

Following the meeting, the delegation toured several of Curtin Malaysia’s facilities, including the Department of Media and Communication, Radio Conti, the Journalism Editing Suite, Cinema Lite, the Work-Integrated Learning Hub, the Curtin Trading Room, the Hydrogen Testbed, and the Curtin Aquaculture Research Laboratory, showcasing the university’s strong emphasis on industry engagement, innovation, and experiential learning.

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 and TVS representatives during the courtesy visit.

Mohamad Sardon with Curtin Malaysia academics and students.

Dr Alpha anak Ngadan briefs Mohamad Sardon in the Curtin Trading Room.

TVS delegates tour Curtin Malaysia’s Radio Conti.

Mohamad Sardon visits the Hydrogen Testbed.

Dr Lee Yih Nin briefs the TVS delegation at the Curtin Aquaculture Research Laboratory.