By Gretta Bala
MIRI: In a remarkable showcase of academic excellence and cultural exchange, five undergraduate chemical engineering students from Curtin University Malaysia recently participated in the esteemed Chemical Engineering ENTECH Summer Programme held at Silpakorn University in Thailand.
The four-day event provided a unique opportunity for students to gain international exposure and practical knowledge in the field of chemical engineering.
The Curtin Malaysia delegation, comprising Austin Jason Pui, Ashley Bernadette Simon Augustine August, Resty James, Irfa Safrina Rahmat, and Nur Amirah Haziqah Ismail, joined peers from Kumamoto University in Japan and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), with the programme supported by renowned institutions including Nagoya University and Chulalongkorn University.
The programme featured a blend of academic immersion, cultural exploration, and international networking.
“The experience deepened my understanding of sustainability and global collaboration,” shared Resty.
Alongside his teammates Irfa and Ashley, Resty’s group was honored with the Best Presentation Award for their innovative engineering solution aimed at enhancing coconut sugar production through sustainable practices.
The event began with an inspiring keynote by Assistant Prof Dr Choowong Chaisuk, Deputy Dean of Silpakorn University’s Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Technology, followed by hands-on sustainability workshops, research presentations by esteemed academics such as Professor Armando T. Quitain from Kumamoto University, and immersive experiences in the vibrant local culture.
In addition to their academic pursuits, students took part in cultural activities such as crafting traditional Thai desserts and tie-dye fabrics at Tara House & Water Sports, visited iconic sites like the Amphawa Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market, and concluded their journey with a visit to the towering Phra Pathommachedi stupa, where engineering insights intertwined with rich cultural experiences.
Associate Prof Bridgid Chin from Curtin Malaysia’s Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, who accompanied the students, praised the programme for its role in providing valuable global exposure.
“This programme exemplifies the kind of high-impact, cross-cultural learning we strive to offer at Curtin Malaysia.
“It is crucial for nurturing globally competent engineers equipped to tackle real-world challenges,” she stated.
With initiatives like the ENTECH Summer Programme, Curtin Malaysia continues to empower its students with the skills and perspectives necessary to excel in the dynamic fields of engineering and sustainability.
