The APU Student Representative Council (SRC) successfully secured a RM30,129 grant from Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) for its yearly events, especially the International Cultural Night (ICN), and to boost the cashless payment system on campus.

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation’s (APU) Student Representative Council (SRC) has secured an impressive RM30,129 grant from Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) through their Cashless Programme 2025.

PayNet’s Cashless Programme, a collaboration with the Ministry of Finance (MoF) aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s digital payment infrastructure, is now in its sixth year. 

Launched as a pilot project with two universities in 2019, the initiative has grown significantly, with the number of participating universities increasing tenfold and popular electronic payment methods like MyDebit, FPX, and DuitNow QR being promoted. 

At APU, the programme’s success is proven, as students and staff are already embracing a fully cashless campus experience by using their AP Cards to pay for food, laundry, or grocery. 

The grant money will be used for a series of exciting initiatives designed to make life on campus even more digitally seamless. 

Specifically, this grant will support the SRC’s yearly events, including the popular International Cultural Night (ICN), and will be used to further promote and enhance the cashless payment system on campus.

This achievement is a direct result of the successful pitching session held on 16 July 2025, led by three of APU’s talented SRC students: Yamin Maki Ismail Mohamed Khair, Raif Izudin Rasulluddin, and Tanvir Ahmed Khan. 

Their brilliant pitching was guided by two dedicated mentors, Assistant Professor Ts Dr Noraini Ahmad from the School of Business (SoB) and Student Affairs Assistant Manager, Ms Hashanna Abdul Halim.

According to SRC Secretary General, Yamin Maki Ismail, “This achievement shows what empowered student leaders can do with the right support.” 

The significant grant secured from PayNet will play a vital role in transforming APU SRC’s yearly events into a more dynamic and seamless experience. 

With this grant, the council can elevate the production and reach of key events like the ICN, ensuring they are not only culturally vibrant but also digitally modern. 

The grant’s focus on boosting the cashless payment system will make transactions for everything from event tickets to food stalls effortless, creating a smoother and more convenient experience for every student and guest. 

This strategic investment will not only enhance the events themselves but will also cement APU’s reputation as a forward-thinking, cashless campus.

“Guiding these students to victory was a true privilege. Their success is a powerful example of how academic mentorship can directly translate into significant, real-world achievements that benefit our entire university community,” said Assistant Professor Ts Dr Noraini Ahmad.

“This is so much more than just a grant,” added Ms Hashanna Abdul Halim. 

“It is a huge vote of confidence in our students. Their hard work and leadership have laid the foundation for a more convenient and forward-thinking campus for everyone.”