Professor Vincent Lee appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin University Malaysia

Miri, Sarawak – 7 July 2025 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen as its new Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive, succeeding Professor Simon Leunig, who has completed a successful five-year tenure leading Curtin University’s Malaysian campus.

Professor Lee’s appointment marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first Sarawakian to hold the top leadership role at Curtin Malaysia, which is owned by the Sarawak Government and jointly operated with Curtin University. His appointment is a testament to the strength of Sarawakian talent and the growing role of Curtin Malaysia in supporting the state’s socio-economic and sustainability ambitions.

Professor Lee previously served as Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive from January 2025 until his appointment, following his tenure as Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor and senior academic leadership roles within the Faculty of Engineering and Science.

A homegrown talent, Professor Lee holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and PhD from the University of Nottingham, and is a professionally registered engineer, chartered scientist, certified project management professional, and Fellow of Advance HE (UK).

A dynamic leader and award-winning academic, Professor Lee brings more than a decade of experience in higher education, specialising in non-linear dynamics, noise, and vibration. He has led numerous industry-funded research and consultancy projects, and in 2019 was named one of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ best young engineers under 35.

Curtin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global Professor Xiaotian Zhang praised the appointment, saying, “This appointment recognises Professor Lee’s outstanding leadership as Interim PVC, as well as his longstanding commitment to the success and growth of our Malaysian campus. His academic standing, industry experience, and strong regional networks, particularly in the areas of sustainability, engineering education, and community development, position him exceptionally well to lead Curtin Malaysia into its next strategic chapter.”

Curtin Malaysia Pro-Chancellor Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam welcomed the announcement, calling it a proud moment for Sarawak, “Having a Sarawakian lead Curtin Malaysia for the first time is a significant milestone. It reflects the strength of the Sarawak–Western Australia partnership and proves that our people have what it takes to lead global institutions. Professor Lee’s leadership will inspire young Sarawakians and drive Curtin Malaysia’s continued contribution to the state’s future.”

Over the course of his academic and professional career, Professor Lee has earned numerous accolades, including the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Rising Star under 35 Award (2019) and the Young Member Award (2018), as well as the Anak Sarawak Appreciation Award from Business Events Sarawak (2018). He is affiliated with several prestigious institutions, including the Board of Engineers Malaysia, Engineering Council UK, Science Council UK, and Project Management Institute (USA).

He continues to contribute extensively to academic research in mechanical engineering and thermal sciences, with a strong publication record in high-impact journals and international conferences.

Curtin Malaysia, established in 1999, is Curtin University’s earliest and largest global campus and an integral part of the university’s global vision. It serves as a hub for transnational education, research, and engagement in Southeast Asia. For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube or TikTok.

Newly-appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, Professor Vincent Lee.