(Miri, 9th July) Curtin University Malaysia has officially announced the appointment of Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen as its new Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive, succeeding Professor Simon Leunig, who completed a successful five-year term as the previous president.
This appointment is of historical significance, marking Professor Lee as the first Sarawakian to assume the highest leadership position at the university. It showcases the strength of local Sarawakian talent and further solidifies Curtin University Malaysia’s role as a vital platform for driving Sarawak’s socio-economic development and sustainability objectives.
Professor Lee has served as Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive from January 2025 prior to this official appointment. Before this, he held roles as Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor and served in several senior academic leadership positions within the Faculty of Engineering and Science, possessing extensive experience in educational administration and research.
Professor Vincent Lee is a locally nurtured talent, holding a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and a PhD from the University of Nottingham, UK. He is also a registered professional engineer, chartered scientist, certified project management professional, and a Fellow of Advance HE (UK). He specializes in nonlinear dynamics, noise, and vibration, has led numerous industry-sponsored research and consulting projects, and was recognized in 2019 as one of the “Best Young Engineers Under 35” by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (UK).
Curtin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global), Professor Xiaotian Zhang, spoke highly of Professor Lee’s appointment. This appointment reflects his outstanding leadership as Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor and his longstanding commitment to the growth and development of Curtin University Malaysia. His deep experience across academic, industry, and regional collaboration—especially in sustainability, engineering education, and community development—will guide Curtin Malaysia into a new strategic era.
The university’s Pro-Chancellor, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr. George Chan Hong Nam, also remarked that this is a proud moment for Sarawak. Having the first Sarawakian lead Curtin University Malaysia not only symbolizes the deepening partnership between Sarawak and Western Australia, but also proves that local talent is fully capable of leading global higher education institutions. Professor Lee’s leadership will inspire more Sarawakian youth and continue to drive the university’s contributions to the state’s future development.
Professor Lee has received multiple accolades in both academic and professional fields, including the 2018 “Anak Sarawak Appreciation Award” from Business Events Sarawak, the 2018 “Young Member Award” and the 2019 “Rising Star Under 35 Award”. He is a member of the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM),
the Engineering Council UK, the Science Council UK, and the Project Management Institute (PMI, USA). He actively participates in publishing international journals and conferences, with significant achievements in mechanical engineering and thermal sciences.
Curtin University Malaysia was established in 1999 as Curtin University’s earliest and largest international campus. It plays a critical role in the university’s global development vision and serves as a key hub for transnational education, research, and social engagement in Southeast Asia.