Apply Now!
Skip to main content

article

Igniting Innovation and Global Collaboration

17 Oct 2025, 11:45 am

Image
apu-1-from-startups-to-smart-partnerships


Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) hosted a dual event on 27th August 2025 that brought together thought leadership, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration, led by Ms Harjinder Kaur (Senior Lecturer and IAP Coordinator, School of Marketing and Management at APU).

APU-2-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)


The programme began with an engaging keynote session titled “Startup Ecosystems and AI Development” delivered by Mr Afiq Johar, Chief Executive Officer of Durian Capital Berhad.

APU-4-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)


Later in the day, APU welcomed an academic delegation representing institutions in Kazakhstan for a campus visit.

While the two events had different focuses, they were united by a common goal; to explore how innovation, technology, and global partnerships can shape the future of education and entrepreneurship. 

Inspiring Minds: Startup Ecosystems and AI Development

APU-4-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)


Mr Afiq began by mapping out the foundations of a thriving startup ecosystem.

He explained that successful ventures rarely grow in isolation, but instead depend on a supportive environment shaped by policy, infrastructure, access to funding, and mentorship.

The discussion then shifted to the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI).

Mr Afiq illustrated how AI is no longer confined to the tech sector but is actively reshaping industries as diverse as healthcare, media, manufacturing, and legal services.

He highlighted the emergence of hybrid roles such as AI-powered doctors and AI-assisted lawyers, noting that these professions represent how technology and human expertise can work in tandem rather than in competition.

APU-5-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)


Sharing from his own journey as CEO of Durian Capital Berhad, Mr Afiq offered practical wisdom to aspiring entrepreneurs.

He stressed that while financial backing is important, it is often culture, adaptability, and the willingness to learn quickly that determine a startup’s long-term success.

According to him, momentum is built through strong values and a collaborative mindset, not just through capital injection.

Finally, Mr Afiq addressed the students directly, urging them to prepare for a future in which AI will be deeply embedded in every field of work.

Beyond technical expertise, he emphasised the importance of cultivating soft skills, digital literacy, and an entrepreneurial way of thinking, which will allow graduates to thrive in AI-driven economies and contribute meaningfully to innovation across industries. 

Student Perspectives

APU-6-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)

 

  1. John Paulose, Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Software Engineering: “The session helped me realise that building a successful startup is a gradual journey that thrives on learning, adaptability, and a strong culture, rather than just capital.”
  2. Hasnain Mohiuddin, Bachelor of Mechatronic Engineering with Honours: “The session was insightful, as it helped me understand that startup success isn’t just about funding, but about developing solid business models, working with the right partners, and keeping pace with advancements in the field.”
  3. Nitiya Dahal, Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialism in Data Analytics: “I appreciated learning how AI can be used as a powerful tool, rather than a competitor, while also gaining insights into the essential skills needed to apply AI in startups and transform the way different industries operate.”
  4. Fakhri Ekaputra Surya, Master of Business Administration with a specialism in Digital Leadership: “The session inspired me to think more critically about the startup landscape, showing how direct insights from an active venture capitalist can reshape our understanding of entrepreneurship, clarify misconceptions about venture capital, and highlight how global efforts are empowering bright ideas to become impactful ventures.”
     

Strengthening Ties: Kazakhstan Delegation Visit

APU-7-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)


After the keynote session, the Kazakhstan delegation’s visit to APU went beyond a formal courtesy call, serving instead as a meaningful platform for dialogue, exploration, and the deepening of academic partnerships.

Under the guidance of APU’s Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer Professor Ir EurIng Ts Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, the visit allowed delegates to experience firsthand how APU is shaping the future of education through innovation.

APU-8-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)


One of the key highlights of the visit was a tour of APU’s facilities, which delegates explored AI laboratories, innovation hubs, and collaborative learning spaces, all of which demonstrated how technology is embedded into both teaching and student-driven projects.

The discussions that followed focused on academic innovation and teaching practices, which involved a few representatives from APU:

  1. Ts Nur Zahdi Mohd Nor Aldin, Director of Quality Management at APU
  2. Prof Dr Mohammad Falahat Nejadmahani, Director of Strategic Research Institute at APU
  3. Assoc Prof Dr Devinder Kaur, Head of School of the School of Marketing and Management at APU
     

Delegates and APU representatives exchanged ideas on the personalisation of education, blended learning, and the adoption of new digital tools in the classroom.

These conversations underscored the shared ambition of both institutions to prepare students for a future shaped by rapidly evolving technologies.

Another important area of discussion centred on collaboration opportunities.

Both sides explored possibilities for joint academic programmes, faculty exchanges, and research partnerships.

The potential to commercialise academic research and transform student projects into market-ready solutions was also highlighted, demonstrating a shared interest in bridging academia with industry.

Beyond the immediate outcomes, the visit carried significant global impact.

It not only showcased APU’s strengths in AI, digital transformation, and innovation-driven education, but also opened pathways for future cooperation in green finance, smart campus initiatives, and cross-border educational platforms.

Reflections on the Dual Event

APU-9-(From-Startups-to-Smart-Partnerships)


Ms Harjinder shared that the dual event, featuring Mr Afiq’s keynote session and the visit from the Kazakhstan delegation, offered both students and staff a meaningful and inspiring learning experience.

“These engagements gave students and staff valuable exposure to both the entrepreneurial mindset needed to navigate the startup ecosystem and the importance of global collaboration in advancing education and innovation.

“Through opportunities like these, students and staff learn to view AI and technology not as challenges, but as tools for creativity, transformation, and building meaningful connections across borders,” she said.

Additionally, Prof Vinesh highlighted that the dual event was a valuable experience that further strengthened APU’s efforts in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and global collaboration.

He noted that Mr Afiq’s insights as an experienced venture capitalist offered practical perspectives on startups and governance beyond Malaysia, while the Kazakhstan delegation’s visit further enriched the exchange by paving the way for future academic and industry collaborations.

“This dual event reflected the spirit of progress we aim to cultivate at APU, where knowledge, innovation, and global partnerships come together to inspire meaningful impact.”