Curtin University Student Learning Awards Commend Five Students for Turnaround Performance

(Miri, 9th) Curtin University Malaysia recently held its third Curtin Malaysia Student Learning Awards (CMSLA) to commend five students who successfully turned around their academic performance in 2025, as well as the dedicated lecturers who guided them, affirming the achievements of the collaborative efforts and growth between teachers and students.
The award aims to recognize students who have shown significant progress, perseverance, and active engagement in their learning journey, while also appreciating lecturers who have gone beyond their teaching duties to fully mentor and motivate students.
This year's award-winning students include fourth-year Chemical Engineering student Sean Liau Tze Chuen (mentored by Jenney Ngu), Business student Calvin Ngu Guang Jun (mentored by Dr. Ivy Hii), Foundation Engineering and Science student Darrell Eleazer Jerow (mentored by Jameson Malang), as well as first-year Engineering students Russell Agung Wilfred (mentored by Jameson Malang) and Ng Xin Kai (mentored by Hii Kiew Ling).
Several award-winning students shared their journeys of growth. Sean Liau candidly admitted that he had once fallen into an academic slump, but ultimately persevered and emerged from his struggles. He encouraged his peers: “Don’t give up easily, always communicate with your lecturers, and report on your progress and challenges.”
Russell shared his method for improving concentration: “I use the Pomodoro Method to stay focused and avoid fatigue. Persistence is key—if the process isn’t challenging, it’s not worth it.”
Mentors Jameson Malang and Dr. Ivy Hii also shared their thoughts. Jameson said: “I encourage students to make personal study schedules and help them stay on track with regular follow-ups.”
Dr. Hii remarked: “Effective student mentoring starts with a sincere teacher-student relationship. I encourage students to develop a growth mindset and see setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth.”
Professor Tang Fu Ee, Dean of Learning and Teaching, praised the efforts of both lecturers and students in his speech: “It’s gratifying to see lecturers’ dedicated guidance successfully turn students’ academic performance around. I am proud of the quality of teaching and commitment to learning they have shown.”
Curtin Malaysia’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, attended the award ceremony and jointly presented the awards with Professor Tang. He pointed out that the awards reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment, enabling both students and lecturers to thrive together.
Since its inception, the Curtin Malaysia Student Learning Awards has entered its third year, becoming an important platform showcasing student perseverance, the spirit of mentorship, and the collaborative achievements between teachers and students, further strengthening Curtin University Malaysia’s commitment to student success and educational excellence.