With her remarkable contributions to the fintech industry, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) student Loh Wan Chin was honoured with the Rising Star of the Year award at the Asia Fintech Awards 2024.

Loh took centre stage as the Co-Founder and Vice President of the Malaysian Youth Fintech Association (MYFinT), earning this prestigious accolade for her outstanding efforts in driving fintech growth and championing youth empowerment.

Her achievements did not go unnoticed, as the panel of judges highlighted her relentless work in expanding MYFinT’s partnerships and promoting the association through active engagement at industry events.

They noted that Loh not only founded the association but also worked tirelessly to grow it by forming key partnerships and consistently advocating for fintech youth involvement.

In the past year, Loh has represented MYFinT at major global fintech platforms, including the Singapore Fintech Festival 2023 & 2024, Blockchain Life Dubai 2024, and Fintech Festival Bangkok 2023, where she delivered a memorable speech titled “Which came First: Fintech Innovation or Youth Empowerment in the Financial Services Industry.”

During these engagements, she emphasised the critical need for youth empowerment as a driving force behind innovation in financial services, urging young people to take the lead in shaping their futures and actively participate in advancing the fintech landscape.

On top of that, in collaboration with the Fintech Association of Malaysia, Loh has led the establishment of university-based fintech societies, including the MY Fintech Young Leader Society at APU.

This initiative aims to expand nationwide, fostering the next generation of fintech leaders by creating a strong network of student-led societies that will drive innovation and collaboration across universities in Malaysia.

APU’s commitment to Fintech Leadership

APIIT Education Group and APU’s Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer Professor Ir EurIng Ts Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam highlighted that Loh’s win not only demonstrates APU’s ability to collaborate effectively with the fintech industry but also reflects APU’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge financial technology insights into its finance and information technology (IT) programmes.

“Additionally, this ensures that APU continues to nurture students equipped with the skills and knowledge that are highly valued by industry employers.”