Latest news with #AsiaPacificUniversityofTechnology&Innovation
The Star
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Star
APU grad gets IEM nod of excellence
Congratulations: Chong (right) receiving the award from IEM president Prof Dr Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin. Chong Chee Kin, a Bachelor of Mechatronic Engineering (Honours) graduate of the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), is a recent recipient of the coveted Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Gold Medal Award. This prestigious accolade was presented during the IEM 66th Annual Dinner & Awards Night at Sunway Resort Hotel on April 19. The award is one of the highest honours granted to engineering students in Malaysia and recognises not only academic excellence but also outstanding contributions to the engineering discipline. Chong's accomplishments reflect a combination of technical skills, innovative thinking and academic discipline, a press release from APU read. Graduating with First Class Honours in November last year, Chong's academic journey at APU had been marked by consistency, excellence, and an unrelenting drive for innovation. Throughout his studies, he displayed not only deep technical competence but also a strong capacity for creative problem-solving. Under the guidance and mentorship of Assistant Prof Dr Lau Chee Yong and Assistant Prof Dr Alexander Chee Hon, Chong developed a robust portfolio that showcases his multifaceted talents and relentless commitment to engineering excellence. At the Malaysia Technology Expo 2024, he clinched both the Prestigious Outstanding Award and a Gold Award, signalling his rising prominence in the field. His innovative contributions also earned him the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Malaysia Merit Award, providing him the opportunity to represent Malaysia at the APICTA Finals in Brunei – an international platform that celebrates excellence in ICT innovation. Chong was awarded the Gold Medal, Best Invention Design Award and Bucharest Special Award at the Invention Innovation Competition Canada (iCAN) 2024. He also received the highly competitive James Dyson Award 2024, further affirming the global impact of his inventive capabilities. Chong, said the varsity's School of Engineering head Assoc Prof Dr Siva Kumar Sivanesan, exemplifies the innovative spirit and technical excellence APU strives to nurture. 'We are immensely proud of his accomplishments and confident that he will continue to make significant contributions to the engineering profession,' he said, adding that Chong's journey demonstrates that with dedication, curiosity and the right mentorship, students can scale remarkable heights – both locally and internationally.
The Star
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Star
APU's Secure Path AGV achieves highest accolades in Brussels
FINAL-YEAR engineering undergraduates Chong Chan Heng, Goh Chuk Fun, Pang Cheng Hsiang and Samantha Koay Yenn Xian – known as the Fantastic 4.0 from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) Centre for Research and Development of IoT (CREDIT) – have made history with their efforts to engineer an autonomous guided vehicle (AGV) with purpose. These bright young engineers won the Platinum Medal Award at the virtual Eureka International Brussels Invention and Innovation Competition 2025, held in Belgium from April 6 to 7. Their innovation, the 'SecurePath AGV', is a highly intelligent AGV designed to improve safety and emergency response capabilities. Combining artificial intelligence (AI) with sophisticated robotics, a custom LLM chatbot, computer vision for detection, and a navigation system, the SecurePath AGV offers practical social engineering solutions that can be deployed in any environment. Representing the Fantastic 4.0, Chong explained that the key to clinching the win lay in the complexity of the innovation's application, the clarity with which the team illustrated its real-world impact, and the strength of their system architecture presentation during the judging session. 'We did face a few hurdles – tight deadlines for getting everything completed, stiff competition from the highly talented international teams, and the need to technically present the product's complexity to a panel of international judges within a limited time,' he shared. Through this competition, the team learnt how to pitch complex engineering ideas in a way that is both clear and convincing, highlight key points of innovation and practicality, and accept constructive criticism. 'We also got to see a lot of cutting-edge ideas from other international participants, which really broadened our understanding of what's trending in tech innovation worldwide. 'It was exciting. It was a fantastic experience to showcase our project on an international stage, meet other innovators and swap ideas across different fields,' Chong said, adding that the competition added value to their studies at APU. 'It has helped us put the technical knowledge we have gained on campus to good use in a real-world context, sharpened our critical thinking and presentation skills, and given us a real boost of confidence for tackling future engineering challenges,' he said. Beyond the Platinum Medal, the team also secured three additional special awards: one from Innovation Initiative Co-operative Inc. 'The Inventors Circle' (Toronto, Canada), another from the Turkish Inventors Association, and a third from the National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest. According to APU chief innovation and enterprise officer Prof Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, this recognition reaffirms APU's commitment to nurturing talent into innovators who address complex social challenges by bridging computational and engineering skills. He explained that these APU students have shown just how well Malaysian universities can compete and excel on the global stage. 'The SecurePath AGV is not your ordinary robot. Infused with AI, it was built on the robust SCUTTLE robotic platform with a sturdy aluminium frame. 'It uses SLAM navigation for independent patrolling, machine vision to spot falls and recognise faces, an LLM-powered chatbot for natural chat, and an automated emergency dispensing system to provide medical supplies as required in various environments,' he said. CREDIT head Assistant Prof Narendran Ramasenderan, who mentored the students alongside Krishna Ravinchandra, congratulated the Fantastic 4.0 on their success. Narendran said the SecurePath AGV was the result of months of hard graft, technical brilliance and innovative thinking. 'These students have proven that APU's hands-on, project-based learning approach produces graduates who are ready to take on global challenges,' he said. CREDIT has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge IoT solutions across various industries, and this latest award adds to the centre's growing list of international accolades, solidifying APU's reputation as a technological innovation hub in Malaysia and the Asean region. The team's multi-award-winning rover can independently navigate busy retail spaces, identify emergency situations, chat with people via voice or text, and provide immediate access to medical supplies through cleverly designed servo-controlled compartments. For APU, this international recognition highlights the university's successful approach to education – one that emphasises the practical application of classroom learning alongside the development of high-level industry skills to prepare graduates for the real world.
The Star
30-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Business degrees for an AI era
IN an era of rapid technological change, global disruption and evolving industries, business education is undergoing a profound transformation. Employers—from start-ups to multinational corporations—increasingly find that while many university graduates have solid academic backgrounds, they often lack the practical skills, industry exposure and digital fluency needed to navigate today's complex global business environment. Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving business careers by automating routine work, enabling quick and smarter decisions, personalising customer experiences, creating new AI-focused roles and transforming how people work together for enhanced productivity. People in business need to adapt by learning AI tools and focusing on skills that complement AI, like creativity, strategy and emotional intelligence. As business becomes more agile, data-driven and globalised, educational institutions must rethink how they prepare students to thrive from day one. At the forefront of this transformation is the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Through real-world learning, technology integration, industry collaboration and multicultural engagement, APU is redefining what it means to be future-ready. At APU's School of Business (SoB) and School of Marketing and Management (SoMM), these challenges are met head-on by providing a more relevant, practical and globally aligned experience. From gap to growth APU's Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Club (APUBCC) members and student ambassadors seizing the moment to snap a photo with Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo following the launch of the first-of-its-kind 'Web3 Innovation Lab (W3IL)'. A global skills gap in new graduates remains a persistent concern for industry leaders. Many attribute this to overly theoretical curricula, limited real-world experience and inadequate exposure to emerging technologies. As a result, many graduates struggle to apply leadership concepts or lack the specialised skills required in sectors such as e-business, business analytics or digital marketing. APU vice-chancellor Prof Dr Ho Chin Kuan highlighted a key flaw in many traditional business programmes. 'Too often, technologies like AI, blockchain and advanced analytics are treated as optional, when in reality they form the backbone of modern business strategy. 'As industries evolve, business education must move beyond static models and adapt to dynamic, real-time demands,' he said. To meet these evolving needs, APU's programmes in Business, Management, Marketing and Hospitality offer real-world experience and strong industry engagement. Every course is developed in collaboration with industry professionals, ensuring that content aligns with current market demands—not outdated theory. 'This model ensures that APU graduates are not only employable but are equipped to lead, adapt and innovate,' added Prof Ho. Enterprise@APU nurtures and supports entrepreneurs and startups through the guidance of experienced coaches, industry experts and organisations. Where tech drives business In today's digital economy, fluency in emerging technologies is no longer an option—it is a business imperative. The university integrates tools like AI, blockchain, data analytics and the Internet of Things (IoT) directly into its business curriculum, going beyond digital literacy. Chief innovation and enterprise officer Prof Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam explained that at APU, technology is not treated as an add-on subject. 'It is central to how our students learn and solve problems. They are trained to use digital tools strategically, making decisions that drive measurable business value. 'Whether it is using predictive analytics for market forecasting or leveraging automation in operations management, our graduates emerge with practical digital skills that give them a competitive edge,' he said. Beyond academics, APU nurtures an entrepreneurship mindset—a vital asset in a world where innovation drives progress. Initiatives such as the Startup Weekend, Accelerator Programme and Venture Building outreaches, led by the Enterprise@APU academic team and supported by the Enterprise Red Dragons youth team, provide students with opportunities to explore, pitch and launch business ideas. 'We are cultivating a generation of innovative business creators. Our students develop critical thinking, resilience and a spirit of innovation through hands-on entrepreneurial experiences. 'At APU, we embed the entrepreneurship DNA in our students, empowering them to be more employable and build stronger portfolios for the organisations they serve,' added Prof Vinesh. Global minds, strategic leaders In today's interconnected world, the ability to work across cultures and borders is essential. APU's state-of-the-art campus, which hosts students from over 130 countries, creates a truly multicultural learning environment that mirrors the global business stage. Prof Dr Kashif Hussain, APU's SoB senior head, emphasised the value of this diversity. 'Our collaborative classrooms unite students from Asean, the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, Europe and beyond, offering a unique multicultural training ground. 'Here, theoretical knowledge is put to the test through interactions with varied cultural approaches and communication styles. 'This active engagement hones critical skills in communication, negotiation and cross-border collaboration—skills that employers in international business actively seek and that are often difficult to acquire in a purely domestic setting.' Modern commerce requires graduates who combine domain-specific expertise and a deep understanding of global dynamics. 'In today's global economy, the ability to navigate diverse markets, understand regional business norms and build relationships across cultures is not just valuable—it is a competitive advantage.' 'We understand that success in today's marketplace demands more than just creativity—it requires strategic insight,' added APU's SoMM senior head Assoc Prof Dr Devinder Kaur. 'We equip our students to craft bold, innovative marketing solutions that are not only imaginative but also deeply informed by shifting global trends and consumer behaviours.' APU's purpose-built, ultra-modern campus is strategically located within Mranti Park Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. Pathways to success APU's strategic location within the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (Mranti) in Kuala Lumpur provides students with direct exposure to regional innovation ecosystems, government-led initiatives and cross-cultural business practices—key advantages for those aiming for international careers or partnerships. The university's holistic, future-focused approach to education is reflected in its strong graduate outcomes. APU's dual award partnership with De Montfort University (DMU) in the UK adds further global credibility. Graduates receive degrees from both institutions, significantly increasing their international employability. APU has also positioned itself as a leader of hospitality and tourism management education. Its collaboration with the Hotel and Tourism Management Institute (HTMi) of Switzerland brings a suite of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes to Malaysia. The HTMi Switzerland's Kuala Lumpur Centre, located on APU's campus, is the first of its kind established by a Swiss hospitality school in Malaysia. The APU School of Business, Marketing and Management programmes are distinguished by their dual accreditation from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and Digital Marketing Institute (DMI), providing students with globally recognised qualifications and enhanced career prospects. APU is the first and only Malaysian university to receive accreditation from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). This accreditation underscores APU's commitment to excellence, rigorous quality assurance processes and student-centred education. To learn more, visit
The Star
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Big-screen debut for sun bear
Rare opportunity: APU students and academic staff participating in field production at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sandakan, Sabah. THE endangered Malayan sun bear is one of the world's most elusive bear species, making it nearly impossible for the average person to come into close contact with one. But Malaysians will soon get an up-close look at a Bornean sun bear through a documentary set for cinema release at the end of the year. Titled Itam: A Sun Bear Story, the documentary – Malaysia's first full-length wildlife feature – tells the story of Itam, a rescued Bornean sun bear given a second chance at life, while spotlighting the endangered species and its disappearing rainforest habitat. For a good cause: Khairul (second from left) handing over a commemorative poster of the documentary to Prof Ho (second from right) at the launch of the trailer. Also present are Tan (far left) and APU SoMAD head Debbie Liew (far right). Filmed entirely in Sabah, it was produced by the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) in partnership with Singapore-Malaysian production house Brainchild Pictures, as part of the varsity's commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. The film's trailer was officially launched on May 8 at the APU campus in Technology Park Malaysia, Bukit Jalil, by Tourism, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan. The first screening of the trailer was held on May 16 in conjunction with International Sun Bear Day. Khairul said the documentary is a timely call for awareness, education and action. 'Projects like Itam put Malaysia on the global map – not just as a tourism destination, but also as a country deeply committed to preserving our natural heritage for generations to come,' he said in a press release. He added that the launch of the documentary underscored the country's commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. Acclaimed filmmaker Raymond Tan, who is the documentary director, noted that conservation alone is no longer enough. 'Education must be at the heart of everything we do if we are to save not just the sun bear, but also our future. 'Itam is more than just a story about a bear; it is a reflection of ourselves and our responsibility to protect the fragile ecosystems we are all part of,' he said. He added that the documentary aims to be more than just educational. 'We want it to entertain and inspire audiences to care deeply about wildlife conservation. 'Ultimately, protecting wildlife is about protecting ourselves – when we save the sun bears, we're safeguarding the health of the entire planet we share,' he said. Efforts to bring the documentary's vision to life involved APU students, who played a pivotal role by developing promotional materials as part of their academic projects and gaining hands-on experience on set alongside industry professionals. Students from the APU School of Media, Arts and Design (SoMAD) contributed creative proposals, including graphic designs, motion graphics, visual effects (VFX) teaser ads and awareness campaigns. They also explored sustainable three-dimensional souvenirs and developed tourism-focused storybooks to raise awareness of sun bears. Brainchild Pictures enriched the learning experience by providing exclusive masterclass sessions at APU, offering insights into the VFX industry. APU vice-chancellor Prof Ho Chin Kuan said participating in the production was a rare opportunity that allowed the varsity's staff and students from diverse creative fields to collaborate on a large-scale project with the potential to make a meaningful impact on environmental conservation. 'This is not just about filming wildlife; it is also about educating the public, empowering young creators, and delivering impactful Sustainable Development Goals outcomes through creative engagement,' he said.
