MIRI: The tranquil beauty of Pantai Bungai recently became a vibrant canvas for creativity as nine students from Curtin University Malaysia’s Foundation in Arts and Commerce programme ventured out on an experiential learning journey.
Armed with cameras, notebooks, and curiosity, these budding travel writers and photographers transformed a field trip into a storytelling masterpiece.
As part of their Travel Writing and Photography course under the School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE), the students immersed themselves in hands-on learning amidst the scenic splendour of Pantai Bungai, a serene beach just an hour from Miri City.
Guided by Associate Teaching Fellows Hanley Fong, Peter Jamba, and Fifi Liew, the students honed their skills in crafting compelling narratives and capturing breathtaking visuals.
The weather posed an early challenge, with heavy rain greeting the group upon arrival.
However, this did little to dampen their spirits. Once the rain subsided, the cloudy skies provided dramatic lighting for photography, inspiring the students to think creatively and adapt their techniques to the atmospheric conditions.
“This was an invaluable learning experience for the students,” said Fong.
“Pantai Bungai offers not just a picturesque setting but also an opportunity to explore the storytelling elements of travel writing and photography. It’s about conveying a sense of place, emotion, and culture to an audience.”
Throughout the day, the students explored the beach’s smooth sands and rolling waves, crafting descriptive travel narratives that brought the location to life.
They engaged with local vendors to gain insights into the area’s charm and history, enriching their stories with authentic cultural details.
For photography, they experimented with framing, lighting, and composition to capture the essence of Pantai Bungai.
The beach’s serene ambiance and natural beauty served as the perfect backdrop, allowing the students to merge technical skills with artistic expression.
This field trip is a testament to SPACE’s commitment to delivering transformative learning experiences.
Established in 2021, SPACE provides foundation and diploma pathways to undergraduate programmes at Curtin Malaysia and other Curtin campuses.
It also offers professional education for working adults, including corporate training, short courses, and micro-credentials.
