Hands-on learning meets real-world engineering at Curtin Research Hub

Miri, Sarawak – 23 June 2026 – First-year students from Curtin University Malaysia’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management) specialising in Quantity Surveying recently stepped beyond the classroom and into the world of engineering research during an immersive visit to the Curtin Engineering Research Hub (CERH).

The visit, organised by lecturer Dr. Yong Leong Kong, provided 13 students with a valuable opportunity to explore how engineering principles, laboratory testing, and soil investigation techniques underpin modern construction projects and infrastructure development.

Hosted by the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering, the programme aimed to strengthen students’ understanding of the critical relationship between engineering science and construction management, while exposing them to industry-standard equipment and research practices at an early stage of their studies.

Welcoming the students, Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Wong Kwong Soon, Head of the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering, highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary learning in preparing future construction professionals.

“This collaboration between departments provides students with valuable exposure to engineering practices that will strengthen their foundation in construction management and enhance their understanding of the technical aspects of the built environment,” he said.

The visit featured a guest lecture by Dr. Hamzh Alarifi, a specialist in Geotechnical Engineering, who shared insights into the vital role of soil investigation in construction planning and project execution.

According to Ir. Meheron Selowara Joo, Acting Head of the Department of Construction Management, understanding soil behaviour is a key competency for future construction managers.

“Soil investigation is fundamental to every construction project. By understanding soil conditions, future construction managers can make informed decisions relating to site suitability, structural safety, risk management, and sustainability,” he explained.

The students were then given an exclusive tour of CERH’s specialised laboratories, including the soil, geotechnical, and concrete laboratories, where they observed advanced testing procedures used in engineering research and industry applications.

Among the technologies showcased were equipment for soil categorisation, compaction testing, bearing capacity assessment, and concrete compression testing – critical processes that influence the design, safety, and durability of construction projects.

A key highlight of the visit was a hands-on laboratory session on particle size distribution analysis. Guided by academic staff, the students applied the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) to analyse and classify soil samples using professional testing equipment and sieves.

The practical session enabled the students to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing firsthand experience in techniques commonly used by engineers and construction professionals.

The students described the experience as both eye-opening and inspiring, noting that it deepened their understanding of concepts introduced in lectures while enhancing their confidence in applying technical knowledge to real-world situations.

Many also appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with researchers and gain exposure to the technologies and testing methods that support major construction and infrastructure projects.

Beyond technical learning, the visit highlighted the importance of collaboration between engineering and construction management disciplines in delivering safe, efficient, and sustainable developments.

The Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management) specialising in Quantity Surveying programme combines technical expertise, management skills, and industry engagement to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the construction sector. Through experiential learning opportunities such as laboratory training, site visits, and industry collaborations, students develop the practical competencies needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving built environment.

As the largest international campus of Curtin University, Curtin Malaysia continues to provide globally recognised education supported by industry-relevant learning, cutting-edge research, and strong professional partnerships. Its commitment to experiential learning ensures that students graduate with the knowledge, skills, and real-world perspectives required to succeed in an increasingly competitive global workforce.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Students and lecturers during group photo session at the Curtin Engineering Research Hub.

Professor Vincent Lee (left) and Professor Zhou Hui exchange the signed MoU documents.

Students touring the concrete laboratory and observing industry-standard testing.