APU hosts an innovative public transport marathon

On 29 June 2024, 200 participants, including students from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), gathered for the Public Transport Marathon, an innovative event hosted by the Operation Smile Club (OSC) from APU.

Held at LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre, the event aimed to promote public transport use and raise awareness about reducing global emissions, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13).

APU promoting sustainable travel

The Public Transport Marathon brought together 40 teams, encouraging sustainable travel habits among participants.

The strategically chosen venue, LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre, is close to LRT and MRT stations, making it an ideal location.

RapidKL supported the eco-friendly initiative by offering MyCity passes at discounted rates—RM6 per day for Malaysians and RM10 per day for foreign participants—enabling unlimited city-wide travel.

Participants explored 11 different stations, engaging in activities at nearby attractions, thereby promoting public transport usage and local tourism.

The event fostered team spirit and environmental awareness, highlighting the benefits of public transport and its positive environmental impact.

A day of fun and competition

The event featured a competitive element, with the winning team receiving a cash prize of RM1,000.

OSC has a history of supporting sustainability, previously donating RM1,500 to the Free Tree Society for tree planting initiatives and another RM1,500 to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for animal shelter maintenance.

Brendan Chiah, an APU alumnus, shared his thoughts: “Initially, I wasn’t excited about PTM 2024, having attended many university events.

But seeing the event at LaLaport, organised by OSC, was impressive. The open-world design encouraged exploring KL, and the tasks highlighted teamwork.

We won not by solving puzzles, but by understanding and connecting.”

Mohammed Muneeb Shaikh, a first-year international student from India, was part of the organising committee.

He shared, “I was inspired by everyone’s enthusiasm and enjoyed helping and interacting with so many people.

The day’s energy and teamwork were great, and I’m proud to have contributed to an event that showcased the importance of our public transport system.”

Mahishkumar Ganeson, a second-year Petroleum Engineering student at APU, noted, “Enthusiastic runners of all ages and backgrounds came together for the well-organised public marathon competition.

Throughout the race, competitors showed outstanding sportsmanship and resolve, pushing themselves to meet personal objectives. It was a great occasion that encouraged camaraderie and constructive rivalry.”

Dalton Gan, a second-year Software Engineering student at APU, said, “From meeting new friends to exploring KL together and winning the marathon, this has been an amazing ride.

I’ve learned about so many new spots in KL and their historical significance. I hope more people join this event to appreciate the convenience of public transport and the beauty of Malaysia.”

Encouraging sustainable habits

The event concluded with a strong sense of community and a renewed commitment to sustainability.

The collaboration with RapidKL and support from LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre exemplified the potential for public-private partnerships in driving positive environmental change.

As participants return to their daily lives, they carry with them the knowledge and experiences gained from this initiative, ready to advocate for and practice more sustainable travel habits.

Ho See Hui, President of OSC, reflected: “I am thrilled with how well the Public Transport Marathon 2024 turned out. It was great to see students and the community come together for this cause.

This event not only showcased the perks of public transport but also brought participants closer together. I believe our efforts will inspire more sustainable habits in daily life.

Big thanks to our committee, especially project manager Jack Ser, and to everyone who joined in and made this event special!”

Gurpardeep Singh, Chief Operating Officer of APU, concluded, “The Public Transport Marathon not only encouraged the use of public transport but also sparked a larger conversation on how individual actions can contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.

Together, we can make a difference and work towards a greener, more sustainable future for Malaysia.”