A Lifelong Journey of Learning: Lim Siew Yong’s Academic Triumph at 80

Bandar Seri Begawan, 7th Sept 2024 — At the remarkable age of 80, Lim Siew Yong has etched his name in the annals of academic excellence by being selected as one of the top graduates in the Universiti Teknologi Brunei’s (UTB) 2024 convocation list. This accomplishment is not just a testament to his intellectual rigor but also a reflection of his lifelong commitment to learning and professional development.

Reflecting on this achievement, Lim expressed his surprise and gratitude. “I had hardly expected to be recognized among the top students,” he said. “The past two years demanded tremendous effort, and it feels rewarding to see my hard work pay off.” His wife shared in his joy, thrilled by the news, and Lim credits her unwavering support as crucial to his success. “Without her understanding and encouragement, I may not have achieved my ambition with excellence.”

Lim’s pursuit of knowledge is not a new endeavor. With an impressive background, he acquired his professional qualifications as a Chartered Engineer in the UK in 1977 and became a founding member of the Pertubuhan Ukur Jurutera dan Arkitek (PUJA) in 1984. His decision to enroll in UTB’s part-time Master’s program at 78 was motivated by a desire for self-improvement rather than career advancement. “I wanted to deepen my knowledge and skills in civil engineering,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning.

However, the journey was not without challenges. Returning to academia after more than five decades posed a significant hurdle, especially as he studied alongside much younger classmates. His first semester brought an unexpected setback when he failed a core module—an experience he had never faced in his academic life. “It was a great blow, but I was determined to pass the re-sit,” Lim recalled. Fortunately, he succeeded and completed the program without further issues.

The workload at UTB was intense, requiring a deep commitment to studying and collaboration with industry professionals. Lim undertook mini-projects involving complex feasibility studies, often reaching out to hotels and banks for data collection. “These projects were both time-consuming and demanding,” he explained. The program also required him to conduct a two-year research project on “Effects of Rainfall Pattern on Slope Instability,” which introduced him to new concepts and software applications.

Despite the challenges, Lim found his interactions with younger classmates and lecturers enriching. “I approached my studies with humility, asking many questions to clarify new concepts,” he shared. His classmates were supportive, fostering a collaborative learning environment where they helped each other overcome obstacles.

Through his studies, Lim gained invaluable insights into the construction industry’s impact on climate change, particularly the environmental ramifications of traditional cement production. “I learned about alternatives like Pulverized Fly Ash, which helps reduce carbon emissions,” he noted, emphasizing the dual benefits of recycling industrial waste while lowering energy use.

Completing the Master’s program has led to significant personal changes for Lim. He now cultivates a daily habit of downloading and archiving articles related to slope failure, enhancing his ongoing learning journey. “This process allows me to continue my education beyond the classroom,” he stated.

Lim’s academic journey is complemented by an extensive professional career. He has contributed to various landmark projects, including the iconic Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge in Brunei. “I’ve been fortunate to work on significant developments throughout my career,” he reflected.

As a partner at Ove Arup Dan Rakan Rakan, Lim encourages fellow engineers and professionals to pursue further education, regardless of age. “At 80 years old, I believe that age is not a barrier to learning and self-improvement,” he stated passionately. “I want to inspire others to make learning a lifelong pursuit.”

Looking ahead, Lim plans to utilize his research to benefit the community by exploring the development of an early warning system for landslides in collaboration with UTB. “This is my way of contributing to society,” he concluded, demonstrating that his commitment to learning and service knows no bounds.

In a world where age often presents perceived limitations, Lim Siew Yong stands as a beacon of inspiration, proving that the pursuit of knowledge is truly a lifelong journey.