KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus’ Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) Student Chapter visited three prominent facilities in Bintulu and gained insights into edible oils, aluminium and ferroalloy industries while learning about the critical role of sustainability in the industrial sectors.
The group of 20 students were led by Deputy Head of School, School of Engineering and Science Ir Dr Chew Jiun Jing, and Ir Dr Elaine Yeu Yee Lee, the advisor of Swinburne’s IChemE Student Chapter.
The visit commenced with a tour of Bintulu Edible Oils Sdn Bhd. Hosted by the general manager, Lu Khai Ing, the visitors were briefed on the industry’s economic and environmental impacts. This was followed by a guided tour of the facility’s control system room where the company’s advanced control systems and data-sharing infrastructure were introduced.
The group also visited Press Metal Bintulu Sdn Bhd, a prominent global aluminium producer in Southeast Asia. During the visit, the students were given an overview of the critical role of sustainability in the industrial section. This showcased Press Metal’s initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote recycling practices in the industry. The visit to OM Materials (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd gave the students invaluable insights into the production processes of silicon and manganese alloys, emphasizing the innovative energy efficiency and waste management practices employed by OM Sarawak. This further underscores the importance of sustainable production methods in the industry.
At Press Metal Bintulu Sdn Bhd, students learned about sustainability’s critical role in the industrial sector.
Veron Ong Chin Khai, the president of Swinburne’s ICHemE Student Chapter shared that the visit was very rewarding. “Witnessing how theoretical concepts from our academic studies translate into practical applications in an industrial setting further reinforces all that we were taught in the classroom. It broadens our perspective and prepares us for the challenges and opportunities that await us in our future careers,” (name) added.
To complement the invaluable site visits, the student chapter also organized a networking dinner with Swinburne’s Chemical Engineering alumni, Andy Law Kai Wen and Jason Kueh Jun Yi. This networking opportunity further enriched the student’s knowledge as it gave them the invaluable opportunity to engage with esteemed professionals and gain first-hand insights into the diverse career paths available to chemical engineers.
Through networking with established professionals, alumni, and industry experts, Swinburne students were able to learn of the various roles and responsibilities of chemical engineers, as well as the challenges and opportunities they may face. This exposure allowed them to broaden their perspectives, explore potential career avenues, and make more informed decisions about their future in the industry.
According to Ir Prof Dr Su Hieng Tiong, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, the success of industrial visits such as these underscores the importance of collaboration between education institutions and industry.
“We are grateful to our industry partners for always welcoming our students to their sites. These invaluable experiences not only bridge the gap between academic learning and industrial practice but also inspire our students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The insights and hands-on exposure they gain from these visits will surely help towards their professional growth and success,” he added.
The Swinburne Sarawak IChemE Student Chapter was formed in 2015 and serves as a platform for students to exchange knowledge and network on topics concerning chemical engineering. Since its establishment, the student chapter has organised industrial site visits, engineering workshops, talks, and webinars.
For more information on Swinburne Sarawak, visit its website, Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram page (@swinburnesarawak), Twitter page (@Swinburne_Swk), TikTok page (@swinburnesarawak), or YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak).