Curtin Malaysia volunteers transform SK Tudan Resource Centre

Miri, Sarawak – 13 August 2026 – A once-neglected room at SK Tudan has been given a new lease of life as an inspiring learning hub, thanks to more than 120 Curtin University Malaysia students, staff and alumni who spent their weekend transforming the school’s Resource Centre.

Serving more than 1,200 pupils, the Resource Centre had long struggled with an outdated layout, worn facilities and limited technology. But over 1 – 2 August, the room was transformed through “Dreams in Bloom: The SK Tudan Resource Centre Reimagined”, a community initiative under Curtin University’s International Acts of Service programme.

Armed with paintbrushes, power tools and plenty of enthusiasm, 63 volunteers on the first day cleared the space, moved furniture, prepared walls and began repainting. A second team of 61 volunteers returned the following day to assemble bookshelves, arrange refurbished furniture, sort books and create interactive learning corners designed to encourage curiosity and discovery.

The project was carried out in partnership with SK Tudan teachers, whose support helped turn the volunteers’ vision into a practical and welcoming space for the school community.

Curtin Malaysia alumnus and Councillor Leslie Lau, who joined the initiative, said the transformation was about much more than improving the room’s appearance.

“Today, what the volunteers do is far more than repainting walls, reorganising shelves, or bringing refurbished furniture. We are creating a space where imagination can flourish, where curiosity is encouraged, and where dreams can begin to take shape,” he said.

“A resource centre is the heart of a school – it should never be viewed as a luxury.”

Mayor of Miri and Curtin Malaysia Council Member Adam Yii, who joined the initiative on the second day, also praised the collective effort.

“When a community unites behind a common purpose, meaningful change is not only possible – it becomes inevitable,” he said.

The project also demonstrated how community action can advance sustainability. By repurposing existing furniture and materials wherever possible, the initiative supported United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, while the creation of a more inclusive and engaging learning environment contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education.

For SK Tudan’s pupils, the transformation represents more than a freshly painted room and new shelves. It is a space designed to inspire them to read, explore, learn and dream – a powerful reminder that their education and aspirations matter.

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Curtin Malaysia volunteers with Councillor Leslie Lau during the first day of the initiative.

Councillor Lau (left) helps Curtin Malaysia Corporate Affairs Manager Nicholas Leong (right) carefully pack books during the transformation.

Curtin Malaysia lecturers help remove a broken air conditioner from the Resource Centre.

Volunteers sort and organise books for the revamped Resource Centre.

Mayor of Miri and Curtin Malaysia Council Member Adam Yii (centre) celebrates the community spirit with volunteers.

Adam Yii joins volunteers in repainting the Resource Centre.

Volunteers conduct a final check before returning books to the shelves.