The 25th Anniversary Gala Night of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia, IEM Miri Branch, held on 14 December 2024, marked a significant milestone for the engineering community in Miri, Sarawak. With a history of fostering professional development, promoting the engineering profession, and facilitating networking among its members, the institution celebrated its silver jubilee in style at the Sarawak Grand Ballroom, Miri Marriott Resort & Spa.
The theme for this grand occasion, "Smart Engineering, Sustainable Living," highlighted the vital role engineers play in shaping a sustainable future. The event was an evening to celebrate the institution's journey, bid farewell to 2024, and foster connections among the engineering fraternity and its partners. The night commenced with the arrival of guests from 6:30 PM onwards, setting the tone for an evening of camaraderie, entertainment, and celebration.
The Gala Night began with welcoming speeches from distinguished leaders of IEM Miri Branch. The Organizing Chairman, Ts. Francis Liaw, opened the evening with heartfelt remarks, followed by inspiring addresses by IEM Miri Chairman, Ir. Meheron Selowara Joo, and IEM HQ President, Ir. Prof. Dr. Jefferey Chiang. Although the anticipated guest of honor, Sarawak’s Minister of Transport, Yang Berhormat Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, was unable to attend, his replacement, Cr. Toh Kah Siong, delivered an equally motivating speech that resonated with the attendees.
Guests were treated to a delightful 9-course dinner that showcased a blend of local and international flavors. The menu began with a Hot & Cold Combination Platter featuring Fish Umai, Prawn and Scallop Salad, Scrambled Egg with Crab Meat, and Siew Mai. This was followed by Chicken with Prawn Wantun and Vegetables Soup. The main courses included Fried Rice, Stir Fry Chicken with Chili, Sweet & Sour Seabass, Oxtail Assam Pedas, Lemon Prawns, and Assorted Vegetables. For dessert, the Sweetened Mango Sago with Coconut Milk provided a refreshing finale.
Throughout the evening, guests were entertained by traditional dance performances and captivating vocal performances that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak. YB Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts of Sarawak, added a personal touch by mingling with attendees at each table, fostering a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary, members and ministers went up on stage to officiate with a group photo. A video montage showcasing the 25-year history of IEM Miri highlighted the institution’s achievements and initiatives. This was followed by a recognition ceremony that honored engineers who have significantly contributed to the community. Sponsors of the event were also acknowledged, with recipients including Petros, Sarawak Energy, Curtin University, Shin Yang, and Ultech Engineering. Representing Ultech Engineering, Marketing and Business Development Manager Adelene Tie received the award as a Bronze Sponsor.
As the evening drew to a close, the much-anticipated lucky draw brought excitement to the Grand Ballroom. Prizes ranged from luggage sets and home appliances to coveted cash rewards. Cheers filled the room as winners collected their prizes on stage, adding a thrilling finale to the night.
In addition to the lucky draw, two special awards were presented for the best-dressed male and female of the night. Adelene Tie, representing Ultech Engineering, was honored as the female best-dressed winner. The awards were presented by IEM Executive Committee member Ir. Liew, further emphasizing the celebratory spirit of the evening.
The Gala Night officially concluded around 10 PM, but not before guests captured memories with group photos and received commemorative souvenir cups marking the 25th anniversary of IEM Miri Branch. The event was a resounding success, blending tradition, innovation, and fellowship, and leaving attendees inspired as they looked forward to the future of engineering in Miri and beyond.
The participation of Ultech Engineering as a Bronze Sponsor and the representative attendees of the night, including Adelene Tie, Kelvin Tiong, Wong Voon Xing, and Allan Shearer, underscored the company’s commitment to supporting the engineering community and promoting sustainable solutions for a better tomorrow. As the night closed, it was evident that the bonds forged and the achievements celebrated would continue to drive the engineering profession forward in Sarawak.
