MIRI: First-year students from Curtin University Malaysia recently traded classrooms for the rugged outcrops of Miri’s geological landscape as part of an immersive field study designed to bring textbook theories to life.
The one-day study trip was part of the Dynamic Earth (GEOL1008) unit and involved 27 Science and Engineering students exploring Sarawak’s richly layered terrain, known for its hydrocarbon reserves and complex sedimentary structures. Led by Dr Vijay Anand S., a lecturer in Applied Geology, the trip provided students with hands-on learning beyond the lecture hall.
From fossil-laden formations to iron-rich sediments, the students examined geological features up close across three key sites – Jalan Mukah, Miri Central Park and Height Residence, all located within 20 kilometres of the university’s campus.
“Fieldwork like this connects theory to the real world. It’s one thing to read about fossil assemblages or fault systems, but quite another to stand in front of them and analyse their formation in person,” said Vijay.
At each stop, the students observed and documented stratigraphic sequences, coal beds, and fault systems while interpreting how sediments were deposited and transported over time. One highlight came at Miri Central Park, where students encountered rare transported lithologies, a unique opportunity to witness geological processes unfolding in a natural setting.
Supporting the trip were associate lecturer Fiona Bassy, postgraduate researcher Patricia Henry and final-year student Aristotle Joshua Endaya, who guided the cohort through each location’s geological significance.
For engineering students, the fieldwork offered a fresh perspective.
“They approached the rocks not just as formations, but as future infrastructure challenges or energy assets.
“It opened their eyes to how geology underpins everything from energy development to environmental planning,” said Fiona.
The outing also reinforced the value of interdisciplinary learning – a core aim of the trip. While geology students focused on the scientific interpretation of rock layers and fossil data, their engineering peers were encouraged to consider how these natural systems interact with human-built environments.
Set against the backdrop of the Sarawak Basin, a key area for Malaysia’s oil and gas industry, the field trip gave students a practical sense of how geology shapes national energy strategies.
Through experiences like this, Curtin Malaysia is strengthening its approach to STEM education by ensuring students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also gain practical skills in observation, data collection and analysis – all vital in today’s energy and environmental sectors.
“These kinds of field experiences spark curiosity. They help students connect with the subject and see how their learning can lead to meaningful work in the real world,” Vijay said.
