MIRI: Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is leading the way in fostering the next generation of digital construction innovators with two competitions organised by its Department of Built Environment: the Curtin Malaysia Building Information Modelling (BIM) Competition and the 3D Animation Video Competition.
These competitions aimed to sharpen students’ digital skills while tackling real-world construction challenges, placing them at the forefront of technological advancement in the construction industry.
Sr Dr Low Wai Wah, head of the Department of Built Environment, noted the competition’s; role in preparing students, specifically those in the construction management and civil engineering programmes, for the future of construction.
“The use of BIM technology is transforming how we plan and execute construction projects. Through these competitions, students are not only enhancing their digital design capabilities but also gaining invaluable experience in integrating technology into sustainable construction practices,” she said.
BIM technology is rapidly gaining traction within the industry, allowing for more efficient project planning, cost estimation, and risk management. Sr Dr Low noted that these competitions encourage students to explore these innovations, which will likely be the industry standard in the near future.
“Our competitions enable students to see firsthand how BIM can optimise productivity and create more sustainable building practices.”
In the Curtin Malaysia BIM Competition, participants were tasked with creating a 3D model of a two-storey residential house using BIM-related software like Revit and Navisworks.
They then took on the challenge of improving the model by identifying potential design clashes and producing a comprehensive bill of quantities.
Their final deliverable was a short video showcasing their model’s key features and enhancements, reflecting the real-world demands of project planning and design optimisation.
Meanwhile, the 3D Animation Video Competition required participants to visualize sustainability in construction by creating a 3D model of Miri’s innovative Green Wall project, a conceptual urban installation aimed at promoting eco-friendly practices.
The participants were required to incorporate sustainability elements in their designs and produce an engaging video presentation of their final models.
The competitions drew considerable attention from Curtin Malaysia’s student body, with high-caliber submissions showcasing innovative ideas.
In the BIM competition, the first-place team of Allan Kong Giraw, Nevina Tham Li Phing, Johnaton Chan, and Teo Eu Gin impressed the judges with their meticulous design and technical prowess.
Second place went to Abang Shamierul Abang Ahmad Shafiee and Ahmad Nabil Rambli, whose project stood out for its attention to detail and practical application.
The winners received medals, cash vouchers, and certificates of participation.
In the 3D Animation Video Competition, Chong Yuan emerged as the top winner with his compelling design of the Ecobrick Green Wall of Miri, winning a RM2,000 cash voucher, a digital badge, and a certificate of excellence.
