MIRI: The Curtin University Malaysia Library has rolled out a dynamic literacy initiative that turned a quiet academic space into a hive of energy and imagination.
Twenty-six pupils from SK Sayed Othman took part in the ‘Beyond Books: The Story Steps Boot Camp’, a two-hour programme designed to nurture creativity, strengthen storytelling skills and foster a lifelong love of reading.
Run by the library team in partnership with the Department of General Studies at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, the camp mixed guided reading, storytelling exercises, and practical activities such as learning about call numbers and shelving.
The day also included a library tour and a short film screening.
Six Curtin Malaysia student volunteers acted as facilitators and mentors, injecting energy into the activities while sharpening their own leadership and community engagement skills.
Jacinta Richard Seling, a teacher and Highly Immersive Programme Coordinator at SK Sayed Othman, called the initiative “a wonderful partnership that demonstrated the power of collaboration in promoting lifelong learning”.
Lecturer Farahezza Hairon Nizar, from the Department of General Studies, said the programme’s value extended well beyond the classroom.
“Our students are planting seeds of hope and inspiration. This spirit of giving back reminds us that true education is measured not only by achievement but also by impact,” she added.
Christina Urai Dang, Head of Library and Learning Commons, underlined the broader mission of libraries.
“Libraries are more than just places for books; they are spaces for discovery, imagination and connection. Seeing the children’s excitement reminded us why we do what we do,” she said.
The initiative is part of Curtin Malaysia’s wider commitment to promoting literacy, creativity and community engagement, with plans to expand the programme to benefit more schoolchildren across Miri and beyond.
