KUCHING: The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak Branch – Young Engineers Section proudly concluded NATSUM 2025, held from 31 July to 3 August, as a landmark gathering that further positions Sarawak at the heart of Malaysia’s engineering transformation.

According to a statement, as the host, Sarawak delivered the summit’s resounding theme, ‘Empowering Minds, Building Legacies’, symbolising Sarawak’s unwavering commitment to shaping Malaysia’s next generation of engineering leaders.

“With 128 registered participants from branches across Malaysia, the event showcased Sarawak’s ability to convene, educate, and inspire the nation’s brightest young engineers.

“Participants experienced Sarawak’s engineering progress firsthand through technical visits to the Sejingkat Power Plant, Sarawak Metro, and Sejingkat Bridge, symbols of Sarawak as a national leader and innovation hub in engineering.

“The programme also integrated cultural enrichment at the Sarawak Cultural Village, where delegates engaged in team-building activities rooted in local heritage,” it said.

The closing dinner, held in New City Restaurant & Ballroom at The Theatre Hotel, was graced by Sarawak Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Ir. Aidel Lariwoo, who commended the role of young engineers as drivers of innovation and nation‑building.

“Engineers are at the heart of progress. The passion and commitment of young engineers we see here today will shape the infrastructure, technology, and sustainability of tomorrow.

“Sarawak is proud to host such a gathering that nurtures talent and strengthens our engineering fraternity,” he said.

Meanwhile in her closing remarks, Chairlady of IEM Sarawak Branch, Ir. Dr. Angelia Liew San Chuin expressed pride in hosting the event and in witnessing the energy of the next generation of engineers.

“This summit has shown us that engineering is not just about solving problems—it is about building legacies. I believe each of you will carry something meaningful from your time in Sarawak, whether it’s a new friendship, a fresh perspective, or the confidence to take your next step forward,” she said.

She added that hosting NATSUM 2025 in Kuching, nearly a decade since it was last held here, reflects Sarawak’s growing leadership in shaping the national engineering landscape.

A proud moment for Sarawak came with the announcement that the IEM-SAFE UNIMAS Student Section, IEM Swinburne Sarawak Student Section, IEM Curtin University Student Section won the prestigious Outstanding Student Section Awards, highlighting Sarawak’s commitment to nurturing engineering excellence from the university level.

Another highlight of the night is the official launching of the fourth student section under IEM Sarawak Branch – Politeknik Kuching Sarawak (PKS) Student Section by Datuk Ir. Aidel, further signifying IEM Sarawak Branch’s commitment to engage and nurture the next generation of young engineers and engineering technologists.

The success of NATSUM 2025 affirms Sarawak’s position as a centre for engineering excellence, sustainability, and innovation, and sets a high bar for future summits to follow. -UKASnews