Latest news with #AsiaPacificUniversityofTechnologyandInnovation
The Star
16-05-2025
- Science
- The Star
Nurturing future engineering innovators
IN A time where innovation drives everything from healthcare to transportation and even entertainment, engineering stands out as a career that blends creativity, problem-solving and real-world impact. It's one of the few fields where you don't just learn about the future—you help build it. Whether it's designing renewable energy systems, developing autonomous machines or creating smarter cities, engineers are behind the breakthroughs that shape how we live. For SPM leavers who are passionate about technology, curious about how things work and eager to make a meaningful difference, engineering offers not only job security and global opportunities but also the chance to leave a lasting mark on the world. Why engineering matters, now more than ever Engineering is more than just equations and machines—it's a dynamic field rooted in creativity, critical thinking and the drive to solve real-world problems. As industries like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, sustainable technology and smart systems accelerate, the need for engineers with adaptable skillsets, global perspectives and innovative mindsets has never been greater. The demand for engineers today isn't just about technical expertise—it's about being able to think ahead, integrate technologies and create impactful solutions for a fast-changing world. Additionally, engineers must not only master complex systems but also collaborate across disciplines, anticipate societal needs and design with both sustainability and humanity in mind to shape a better future. Is engineering right for you? Don't worry if you're not a tech genius yet—engineering is about a mindset of creativity, perseverance and a hunger to learn. With the right training and exposure, anyone can become an engineer who makes a difference. At Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU), students are nurtured with this belief through hands-on learning, global industry exposure and flexible pathways in emerging fields, such as mechatronics, mechanical, electrical and electronics, computer engineering and petroleum engineering. At APU, students are nurtured to become engineers who make a difference. What sets APU's School of Engineering apart APU's School of Engineering senior lecturer Dr Denesh Sooriamoorthy emphasised that at the institution, engineering isn't just theory—it's a fully immersive journey of learning, building, testing and innovating. 'APU engineering degrees are accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia and internationally recognised through the Washington Accord, giving engineering graduates a powerful launchpad to work and compete globally,' he said. On top of that, APU offers a unique blend of: > Strong theoretical foundations taught by experienced academic and industry professionals. > Extensive hands-on training in advanced labs and real-world projects. > Flexible extensions in high-demand fields like robotics, electric vehicles (EVs) and Internet of Things (IoT). It's also the only university in Malaysia that allows engineering students to pursue extensions and minors in emerging tech domains, giving them a competitive edge in multidisciplinary fields: > Extension pathway: Focuses on developing niche knowledge, skills and attributes essential for contemporary engineering practice within a chosen industry. > Minor pathway: Broadens exposure to multidisciplinary fields, enabling students to complement core engineering competencies with relevant contemporary knowledge areas. Shaping the digital frontier In an age where the lines between hardware and software continue to blur, APU ensures its engineering students don't just keep up—they lead. Through APU's innovative extension and minor pathways, students gain valuable exposure to some of the most transformative technologies of our time, including AI, IoT, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drone technology. APU's School of Engineering head Assoc Prof Dr Siva Kumar Sivanesan emphasised that these pathways are more than just buzzwords as they represent the future of engineering practice across industries. 'This multidisciplinary capability gives engineering graduates a distinctive edge in solving modern challenges in areas ranging from smart agriculture and autonomous transport to predictive maintenance and advanced manufacturing,' he said. Adding to this, APU vice-chancellor Prof Dr Ho Chin Kuan echoed the importance of adaptability in today's digital economy, emphasising that AI is no longer a niche—it's a core driver of how industries function. 'At APU, we ensure our engineering students are fluent in the language of emerging tech so they can thrive in any engineering discipline they choose,' he said. AI is playing a transformative role across various engineering disciplines, particularly in mechatronics, robotics and computer engineering. Engineering the future: Locally and globally APU's engineering graduates are making waves not just in Malaysia but across the globe, contributing to smart tech companies, renewable energy firms, cutting-edge research and development labs, and fast-growing startup incubators. They are equipped with more than just technical knowledge, bringing innovation, adaptability and a global mindset to every challenge they face. Denesh highlighted that APU's engineering students are not just problem-solvers. 'They're innovators, the kind who lead change, push boundaries and design better futures. 'For SPM leavers who are curious, ambitious and ready to take on the world, this is the kind of future that awaits. 'With a globally recognised curriculum, exposure to real-world projects and strong industry partnerships, APU serves as a stepping stone, not just to a career, but to a future where graduates can shape meaningful change and drive technological progress on a global stage,' he said. If you're ready to take the next step towards a meaningful and exciting career, engineering at APU might just be where your journey begins. For more information, visit
The Star
30-04-2025
- The Star
Generative AI for a promising future
At APU, students are empowered not only to use transformative tools like ChatGPT but also understand the technology behind them. IN 2022, the world changed with the rise of the artificial intelligence (AI) tool, ChatGPT. Later, other AI tools like Gemini, Microsoft Copilot and DeepSeek followed suit. These powerful tools are now being used everywhere, from classrooms and offices to startups and global corporations. For students fresh out of SPM, ChatGPT is more than just a chatbot — it represents a powerful glimpse into the future of work, creativity and communication. Additionally, it's a tool that redefines how ideas are developed, how problems are solved and how people interact with technology in both academic and professional settings. At Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU), this future isn't just a vision — it's a reality in motion. At the institution, students are empowered not only to use transformative tools like ChatGPT but also understand the technology behind them, explore its full potential and lead the way in building innovative AI-driven solutions that shape tomorrow's world. Why ChatGPT matters? ChatGPT is more than a homework helper or writing assistant. It's part of a new wave of AI technologies reshaping how we solve problems, learn new things and even choose careers. From writing code and generating business ideas to analysing data and building apps, tools like these are helping professionals across industries get more done, smarter and faster. For SPM leavers, this means you're stepping into a world where AI is your co-pilot. Whether you want to be a digital marketer, entrepreneur, architect, psychologist, designer, animator, mechatronic engineer, cybersecurity consultant or data analyst, knowing how to work with AI will give you an edge. At APU, AI is not just another tool in the syllabus, but a catalyst for innovation, critical thinking and real-world impact. Common misconceptions APU's chief innovation and enterprise officer Prof Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam highlights a common myth surrounding AI — that it is only meant for tech geniuses or students pursuing computer science. In reality, he explained that AI tools like ChatGPT are designed to be accessible, intuitive and user-friendly, making them valuable across a wide range of disciplines. 'At APU, this belief is embedded in the academic culture, where students from various programmes, not just those in tech, are encouraged to explore AI in creative, practical and meaningful ways,' he said. 'This inclusive approach ensures that all students, regardless of their field of study, are empowered to harness the potential of AI in their academic and professional journeys.' Beyond the surface Prof Vinesh emphasised that AI is not just another tool in the syllabus, but a catalyst for innovation, critical thinking and real-world impact. 'We don't just teach students how to use AI like ChatGPT, instead, we train them to understand what's behind the tool, how it works and more importantly, how to use it purposefully and ethically. 'From the very first day, students are encouraged to use AI ethically. We don't restrict it, as they're guided to use it wisely. 'Additionally, AI literacy is embedded into classroom experiences and project work, empowering students to explore AI as collaborators, not just consumers,' he said. AI tools, like ChatGPT, aren't just for tech geniuses, as they are designed to be accessible, intuitive and user-friendly. What's next? If you're an SPM leaver wondering what to study or where to take your next step, take a closer look at the world around you. AI isn't just the future, it's already transforming the present. Tools like ChatGPT are just the beginning of what's possible when human creativity meets machine intelligence. At APU, you won't just learn how to use AI — you'll gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to shape what comes next. Whether you're dreaming of innovating in tech, leading in business or making a difference in the creative industries, APU could give you the tools to thrive in an AI-powered world. For more information, visit
