Curtin Malaysia unveils Avantpreneur Business Lab to ignite student entrepreneurship

Miri, Sarawak – 3 April 2025 – In a novel initiative to nurture entrepreneurial talent, Curtin University Malaysia’s Faculty of Business, in collaboration with Avantsar Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Sarawak Oil Palms Berhad, has launched the Avantpreneur Business Lab at its campus.

This pioneering work-integrated learning programme offers students an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on business experience while developing crucial entrepreneurial skills.

The Avantpreneur Business Lab immerses students in real-world business operations, where they rotate in teams to market and sell Avant Health skincare products within the Curtin community. Beyond sharpening their sales and marketing prowess, students will hone teamwork, business acumen, and customer engagement – key skills that give them a competitive edge in the job market and beyond.

The launch event, held on campus, was attended by industry and academic leaders, including Sharon Chong, Chief Operating Officer of Curtin Malaysia; Professor Pauline Ho, Dean of the Faculty of Business, and Tho Kheng Chiang, Chief Finance Officer and Head in Plantation of Sarawak Oil Palms Berhad. Each underscored the significance of integrating real-world business training into academic programmes to bridge the gap between education and industry.

 A highlight of the event was an insightful talk by Dr. Sherlyn Lim, General Manager of Avantsar Sdn Bhd, titled ‘Tocotrienols: The Special Vitamin E from Palm Oil’. Her presentation shed light on the unique benefits and market potential of palm oil-based skincare, inspiring students to explore business opportunities within the industry.

The official launch ceremony marked the beginning of this dynamic learning programme, with Professor Ho stating, “The Avantpreneur Business Lab is a game-changer for our students, offering them first-hand experience in running a business while developing essential entrepreneurial skills. This aligns with our commitment to producing industry-ready graduates.”

Yip Ka Yii, Chief Project Coordinator, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This initiative bridges the gap between education and industry by allowing students to engage in real business operations. Through this hands-on experience, they gain invaluable insights into marketing, sales strategies, and customer relations, which are skills that are critical for future entrepreneurs.”

With its focus on experiential learning and real-world application, the Avantpreneur Business Lab is set to become a flagship programme at Curtin Malaysia, empowering students to take their first steps into the business world with confidence and competence.

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

Avantpreneur Business Lab student entrepreneurs showcase Avant Health skincare products at Curtin Malaysiaemplate for homepage – MIMAS

Guests and students celebrate the launch of the Avantpreneur Business Lab at Curtin Malaysia