APU students bring hope and joy to young cancer patients

Around 50 children receiving cancer treatment at Ampang Hospital experienced a morning of laughter and encouragement through a community outreach programme organised by students from the Foundation Studies programmes at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU).

Held as an official community engagement initiative under APU’s School of Business (SoB), the programme aimed to provide emotional support and companionship to children undergoing treatment while nurturing empathy and social responsibility among students.

Coordinated by lecturer and Sustainable Future Fusion Club adviser Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj, the initiative transformed the hospital’s paediatric cancer ward into a cheerful environment with clown performances, balloon crafting, interactive games and photo sessions with a teddy bear mascot.

Each child also received a goodie bag containing snacks, toys, puzzles, games and comfort items, alongside handmade “Hug Me” teddy bears sponsored by Sheila’s Teddy, a community initiative that donates handcrafted teddy bears to children facing difficult circumstances.

The outreach was made possible through collaboration between APU, Soroptimist International Shah Alam (SISA) and other community partners.

Students gain valuable lessons beyond the classroom

Beyond distributing gifts and organising activities, APU students spent time talking, laughing and interacting with the young patients, offering companionship to both the children and their families during a challenging period.

Ms Cynthia said the programme was designed to develop socially conscious graduates while strengthening partnerships between educational institutions, non-governmental organisations and community groups.

“This outreach aimed to cultivate empathy, compassion and social responsibility among our students while strengthening collaboration between educational institutions, NGOs and community partners. It reflects APU’s commitment to developing graduates who are not only knowledgeable and skilled, but also socially conscious and committed to making a positive difference,” she said.

Foundation student Zainab Waseem described the experience as deeply humbling, saying the children’s resilience showed how even small acts of kindness could make a meaningful difference.

Fellow student Aqeela Zahyra Zuraimi said the visit reminded her to appreciate life and remain positive despite challenges, adding that she was grateful for the opportunity to bring hope and happiness to the children.

The programme also supported several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health and Well-being, Reduced Inequalities, and Partnerships for the Goals, while reinforcing APU’s commitment to holistic education through meaningful community engagement.