KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus commemorated a quarter-century of educational excellence with its 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner, celebrating its remarkable journey from a small, pioneering campus to a globally connected, next-generation university driving talent, innovation, and transformation.
The milestone event, held on 28 October 2025 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), was officiated by the Sarawak Premier and Pro-Chancellor of Swinburne Sarawak, The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
Over 1,000 attendees joined the celebration, comprising Swinburne’s leadership from its Australian and Sarawak campuses, government dignitaries, industry partners, alumni, students, and distinguished guests. The gathering reflected the university’s profound impact on the educational landscape of Sarawak and the broader region.
Since its establishment in 2000 as a partnership between Swinburne Australia and the Sarawak government, Swinburne Sarawak has evolved into a cornerstone of tertiary education in the region, delivering world-class Australian education in the heart of Borneo and setting new benchmarks for academic excellence and innovation.
From its humble beginnings with an inaugural intake of about 130 students, Swinburne Sarawak has grown into a thriving institution with a diverse community of over 4,500 students today.
The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg (fourth right) along with (from sixth right) Professor Pascale Quester, Swinburne University of Technology Chancellor Professor John Pollaers OAM, Datuk Amar Jaul Samion, and Yayasan Sarawak Director Datu Mohamad Junaidi bin Mohidin during the cake-cutting ceremony in celebration of Swinburne Sarawak’s 25th anniversary.
Over the past 25 years, the university has produced more than 10,000 graduates from over 60 countries – accomplished individuals who continue to drive meaningful change and create real-world impact across industries both locally and globally. This journey stands as a testament to the institution’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and impactful industry and community engagement.
As Swinburne Sarawak marks this significant milestone, it reaffirms its bold vision to be a leading institution that empowers future generations of leaders, innovators, and changemakers through quality education and cutting-edge research. The university continues to enhance educational accessibility, foster innovation, and contribute to socio-economic development in Sarawak and beyond by nurturing future-ready graduates equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Swinburne Sarawak’s growth trajectory aligns seamlessly with the Sarawak government’s aspirations for human capital development and economic advancement. Through strategic partnerships with government and industry, the university serves as a vital catalyst in driving the state’s ambition of achieving a knowledge-based economy and developed society.
The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg delivers his speech.
“Looking ahead, I envision Swinburne Sarawak becoming not only an academic hub for Sarawak and the region but also a centre for research, innovation, and development – a place where new ideas take shape, transformative discoveries are made, and the leaders of tomorrow are nurtured,” said The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
“The university must continue to evolve, staying ahead of industry trends, embracing emerging technologies, and maintaining its relevance in a rapidly changing world,” he said, expressing confidence that Swinburne Sarawak will continue to play a crucial role in the state’s development.
Professor Pascale Quester delivers her speech.
Professor Pascale Quester, Swinburne University of Technology Vice-Chancellor and President, said, “Celebrating 25 years of growth and achievement, this milestone reflects a strong partnership built on vision, trust, and a shared pursuit of excellence in education and research, delivered right here in the heart of Borneo.
“We are incredibly proud of Swinburne Sarawak’s enduring impact – shaping future generations and driving positive change both within and beyond Sarawak’s borders,” she added.
Datuk Amar Jaul Samion delivers his speech.
Datuk Amar Jaul Samion, Chairman of Swinburne Sarawak’s Board of Directors, expressed optimism as he looked ahead to the university’s next chapter.
“The world is changing faster than ever – and with it, the way we learn, work, and live. Swinburne Sarawak is committed to staying ahead of the curve by embracing innovation, expanding research capabilities, and deepening our engagement with industry and community partners,” he remarked.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Awards, which recognised outstanding alumni who have made significant contributions to Swinburne Sarawak, higher education, their respective industries, and society.
First introduced at the university’s 20th anniversary, the awards returned for this silver jubilee celebration with two categories: the Distinguished Alumni Award and the Distinguished Young Alumni Award. Both awards recognised exceptional individuals whose achievements and dedication embody the spirit and values of Swinburne Sarawak. The honourees represented the calibre of graduates the university has produced over the past 25 years, serving as inspiring role models for current students and future generations.
This year, the Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Chan Tyng Tyng, while Christopher Tan Aik Wei received the Distinguished Young Alumni Award.
Chan Tyng Tyng is a pioneering entrepreneur and the founder of Tyng Dance Academy, one of Malaysia’s most decorated and internationally accredited dance institutions. As a passionate dance educator, she has nurtured over a thousand award-winning students while actively giving back to the community through her acclaimed Dance for Love charity concert series, which has raised funds for local causes and brought together hundreds of performers and audiences. She also serves as President of the Kuching Performing Arts Association, championing cultural development and social cohesion across Sarawak.
The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg (third left) presents the Distinguished Alumni Award to Chan Tyng Tyng (third right).
Christopher Tan is a passionate advocate for STEM education and youth empowerment, co-founding impactful programs like Now Everyone Can Code, Shining Light on Solar Cells (which has reached over 20,000 people globally), and Present Like a Pro, a nationwide initiative that has empowered over 500 undergraduates across 13 Malaysian universities. A proud Swinburne Sarawak alumnus who graduated with first-class honours in Mechanical Engineering, he remains actively engaged with the university and the broader academic community, frequently serving as a judge, coach, and mentor for engineering competitions and STEM outreach activities. His dedication to nurturing the next generation reflects his belief that education and innovation go hand in hand.
The gala dinner also witnessed the launch of two significant commemorative projects that capture the essence of Swinburne Sarawak’s 25-year journey.
Guests had the opportunity to experience previews of a special documentary, produced by local production company Rashomon PR, that spotlighted key figures who have played instrumental roles in Swinburne Sarawak’s development over the years. The production traces the institution’s evolution through the voices and perspectives of those who shaped it, offering viewers a close look at the people, milestones, and pivotal moments that have defined its journey.
The special documentary features interviews with 10 prominent stakeholders, including The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak; Professor Pascale Quester, Swinburne University of Technology Vice-Chancellor and President; Professor Ken Heskin, Swinburne Sarawak’s very first Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer; Datuk Amar Jaul Samion, Chairman of Swinburne Sarawak’s Board of Directors; and Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of Swinburne Sarawak. The documentary is set to air on TVS, offering a wider audience a glimpse into the shared vision, collaborative spirit, and enduring support that have been integral to the university’s success.
The evening also marked the official launch of Swinburne Sarawak’s 25th anniversary commemorative book. Recounting the university’s 25-year journey through the lens of those who have shaped its growth, this meaningful publication features compelling narratives and reflections from 31 influential figures in Swinburne Sarawak’s history. Celebrating not only the people behind the university’s success but also the lives it has touched, the book stands as both a historical record and a source of inspiration as Swinburne Sarawak advances into its next chapter.
The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg (second right) officially launches Swinburne Sarawak’s 25th anniversary commemorative book as (from left) Professor Pascale Quester, Datuk Amar Jaul Samion, Swinburne University of Technology Chancellor Professor John Pollaers OAM, and Yayasan Sarawak Director Datu Mohamad Junaidi bin Mohidin look on.
In a ceremony prior to the gala dinner, Industry Awards were also presented to 29 of Swinburne Sarawak’s top-performing graduates in recognition of their exceptional achievements in their respective programs. These awards were made possible through the university’s strong industry partnerships.
This year’s edition of the Industry Awards saw 10 returning sponsors – Yayasan Sarawak, Board of Engineers Malaysia, CPA Australia, Crowe Malaysia, EY, Hock Seng Lee Berhad, Kim Hin Industry Berhad, My Team Stars (M) Sdn Bhd, Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd, and Sarawak Oil Palms Berhad – as well as 12 new sponsors, including Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Malaysia, KPMG Malaysia, Mango Media Sdn Bhd, Engineers Australia Malaysia Chapter, and NEUON AI Sdn Bhd.
A performance during the gala dinner.
Among the esteemed guests present at the 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner were The Honourable Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak; Sarawak state dignitaries; members of Swinburne Australia’s leadership and management team; members of the Council, Board of Directors, and Executive Group of Swinburne Sarawak; and consular officials.
As Swinburne Sarawak reflects on 25 years of achievement, the university looks ahead to building upon this strong foundation – ready to embrace new opportunities, expand its regional and global reach, and continue its legacy of transforming lives through education and research.
Swinburne University of Technology Chancellor Professor John Pollaers OAM (seventh right) presents a memento to The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
For more information on Swinburne Sarawak, visit its website, Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram page (@swinburnesarawak), LinkedIn page (Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus), X page (@Swinburne_Swk), TikTok page (@swinburnesarawak), YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak), or Xiaohongshu page (@SwinburneSwk).