Students explore future pathways through information literacy programme at Curtin Malaysia

Miri, Sarawak – 25 June 2026 – Twenty-two students from SMK Luar Bandar Miri were given a glimpse into university life and future career opportunities during an immersive educational visit to Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia), where they took part in an information literacy programme designed to equip them with critical skills for the digital age.

Accompanied by their teacher, Ilylia Iryani Ibrahim, the students participated in Program Perjalanan Celik Maklumat: Dari Tahu ke Faham, an initiative aimed at strengthening information literacy while inspiring students to pursue higher education.

According to Christina Urai Dang, Head of Library at Curtin Malaysia, the programme reflects the university’s commitment to preparing young people to navigate an increasingly information-driven world.

“In today’s digital environment, the ability to identify credible information and think critically is more important than ever. Through this programme, we hope to empower students with essential lifelong learning skills while introducing them to the opportunities available through higher education,” she said.

The day-long programme featured a series of interactive sessions led by Curtin Malaysia staff, combining practical learning with exposure to academic and professional pathways.

The students began with an information literacy workshop conducted by Nora Hii Siaw Fong, Reference Services Librarian, where they learned how to distinguish reliable sources from misinformation and evaluate information critically. The session concluded with an energetic Kahoot! quiz competition that reinforced key learning points through teamwork and friendly competition. Team First Choice emerged as the winner and received prizes during a special presentation ceremony.

To broaden the students’ understanding of tertiary education opportunities, Samson Philip, Manager of Student Recruitment and Conversion (Campus and Online), shared insights into academic pathways available at Curtin Malaysia. He also highlighted the Sarawak Free Tertiary Education initiative and various financial support mechanisms available to students from B40 households, underscoring the growing accessibility of higher education in Sarawak.

Adding an industry perspective, Renee Loretta Foong, Teaching Fellow from the Department of Media and Communication at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, inspired the students with an engaging sharing session on the broadcasting industry, media careers, and effective interviewing techniques. Her presentation offered students valuable insights into the skills and opportunities available in the evolving media landscape.

The programme’s hands-on learning continued in the afternoon with a practical session on Basic School Resource Centre Management conducted by Senior Technical Services Librarian Sorina Ramli. The students were introduced to the Dewey Decimal Classification system and gained a deeper appreciation of how libraries organise knowledge and support learning communities.

The participants responded enthusiastically to the programme, expressing appreciation for the knowledge gained and the opportunity to experience university life firsthand. Many indicated their interest in participating in similar programmes in the future and suggested incorporating more interactive competitions and activities.

Christina noted that the programme extends beyond library education and serves as a platform to inspire students to envision their academic futures.

“By stepping onto a university campus, interacting with academic and library professionals, and learning about educational opportunities available to them, students are able to see new possibilities for their future. We hope this experience motivates them to pursue their aspirations with confidence,” she said.

She added that the Curtin Malaysia Library remains committed to strengthening community engagement through educational outreach initiatives that promote information literacy, lifelong learning, and meaningful partnerships with local schools.

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

Students listening attentively during a briefing on tertiary education opportunities by Samson Philip.

Renee Loretta Foong (standing at the back) with students during her sharing session on broadcasting and media careers.

Students participating in a practical session on Basic School Resource Centre Management led by Sorina Ramli.

The Curtin Malaysia Library team posing for group photo with participants from SMK Luar Bandar Miri.