Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) received top honours at the Private Education Excellence Awards 2023 which was held in Kuala Lumpur recently.
This recognition came from the Private Education Co-Operative of Malaysia (EDUCOOP), which bestowed four prestigious awards upon APU.
APU commitment to excellence
APU’s exceptional performance at the awards ceremony showcased its commitment to excellence. The institution’s dedication extends beyond academic achievements, focusing on holistic education that prepares students for successful careers.
APU Vice Chancellor Prof. Ho Chin Kuan emphasised that their success in competing with some of the finest private higher education institutions and academics underscores their commitment to promoting diversity throughout the institution.
This approach has led to a strong and meaningful integration within a multicultural environment.
“Additionally, the hard work of our students alongside their academic mentors and advisors in generating remarkable ideas and innovative solutions, combined with the dedication, determination, and passion of our academic staff, particularly in producing quality research and innovative teaching, has led to APU’s acquisition of these accolades. Importantly, our leadership team has played a catalytic role in supporting these efforts,” continued Prof. Ho.
Transforming teaching techniques
APU clinched four notable awards at the event: Best in Student Achievements (Institution Category), Best in Diversity & Inclusion (Institution Category), National Outstanding Innovator Award (University category), and National Outstanding Young Educator Merit Award.
These accolades underscore APU’s commitment to diversity, quality research, and innovative teaching methods.
Ir. Ts. Dr. Reena attributes her success to her eight-year involvement in the biosensing technology research field. “Engaging in multiple research projects, notably Higher Institutions Centre of Excellence (HICoE) projects like the National Artificial Kidney Project with UKM, and winning various research and innovation awards, has established my credibility as a dedicated scientist and innovator in my research field,” she stated.
Dr. Reena is an expert in microfabrication and nanoelectronics, specialising in biosensors and Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) Technology. She previously received MTE’s COVID-19 International Innovation Award and Newport’s Research Excellence Award.
With her aspiration to cultivate young minds as critical thinkers, Dr. Reena transformed her teaching techniques by integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the curriculum through projects such as “Project Einstein” and “Mission Turkey”. These initiatives guide SoE students in presenting science and innovation topics while completing their Communication Engineering Principles module.
Unwavering passion
For Ir. Eur. Ing. Ts. Dr. Lau Chee Yong, a chartered professional engineer and recently certified young professional by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in San Francisco, his journey to winning the National Outstanding Young Educator Merit Award can be ascribed to his unwavering passion for education.
“I have consistently pursued growth and excellence in education and engineering. At APU, I am committed to fostering meaningful interactions with and among students to nurture well-rounded individuals. This is achieved by creating an enriching learning environment that transcends traditional boundaries and empowers students to thrive academically and personally,” explained Dr. Lau.
With over seven years of experience as a lecturer at SoE in APU, Dr. Lau specialises in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, and Renewable Energy.
Guided by its mission statement, the four categories in which APU excelled in the Private Education Excellence Awards further underscore its commitment to providing high-quality, affordable, innovative, and internationally benchmarked education and research. This commitment is delivered in a professional, ethical, and student-centred manner through the design and delivery of various enriching and distinctive learning experiences.
APU’s success at the Private Education Excellence Awards highlights its dedication to providing high-quality, affordable, and internationally recognized education. The institution remains focused on delivering enriching and distinctive learning experiences that foster both academic success and personal growth. APU continues to lead the way in shaping well-rounded individuals equipped for the challenges of tomorrow.