The following day, they visited Murum hydroelectric dam where they were welcomed by Hydro Generation Support senior manager Tay Chang Seng. There they learned how the powerful flow of water through the dams turbines is used to generate electricity.
The Murum Dam, a roller-capacity concrete dam with a height of 141 metres, is the second hydroelectric project developed by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB). Its four turbine generating units are capable of generating up to 944 megawatts of electricity.
Student Sim Zee Ang said the visit helped him learn about the responsibilities of lawmakers, developers and engineers in addressing environmental concerns and the wellbeing of the local inhabitants when developing the dam.
Meanwhile, Dr Hendra commented that the students were able to gain useful insights into the current hydroelectric power projects in Sarawak and potential of renewable energy systems in the states development.
He added Curtin Sarawak was the first institution of higher learning to have organised a site visit for students to the Murum Dam and hydropower station following its commissioning.
The IEEE Student Branch of Curtin Sarawak aims to inspire engineering students to achieve their full potential in line with IEEEs motto To FosterTechnological InnovationandExcellencefor theBenefit of Humanity.
It regularly organises site visits, technical talks, competitions and social activities for its members.
