A team of four exceptional accounting students from Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) has clinched the second runner‑up position at the 23rd National Inter‑Varsity Accounting Quiz (N‑IVAQ) 2025. 

Against fierce competition and complex case studies, APU’s bright talents stood out, reinforcing the university’s reputation for academic distinction and real‑world readiness.

APU’s stellar lineup included Lau Zhi Xuan, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) with a specialism in Taxation; Muhammad Umair Moniaruth and Syafiqah Sybudeen, who are completing the same degree with a specialism in Accounting Technology; and Tai Chee Le, who is pursuing a general Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) degree.

Together, they blended traditional accounting rigour with cutting‑edge technological competence, mirroring APU’s holistic approach to nurturing future finance professionals.

A Rigorous Journey to the Finals

The quiz’s journey began with a virtual qualifying round held on 25 May 2025, via Google Meet. In this digital battleground, students from across Malaysia were assessed on a wide range of subjects, including Auditing, Accounting Information Systems, Finance, Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, Professional Ethics, Corporate Governance, and Taxation. 

Only the highest‑scoring teams advanced to the finals, proving their depth and breadth of knowledge. 

Showdown at MMU: A Test of Strategy and Presentation 

On 31 May 2025, at Multimedia University’s Melaka Campus, APU’s team faced the heat in the final round—a live case‑study presentation before a distinguished four‑member panel. The topics covered are Financial Accounting, Auditing, and Governance, requiring meticulous technical accuracy and persuasive communication. 

The judging panel comprised senior professionals from Malaysia’s accounting landscape, including:

• A Senior Finance Manager from the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA),
• A Senior Assurance Manager from PwC,
• The Managing Partner of Lee & Lim PLT,
• The Audit Committee Chair of a prominent listed company. 
   

Here, APU’s students demonstrated not only robust analytical capabilities, but also clear, confident presentation skills—earning particular praise from the judges. 

Guided by Exceptional Mentors

Behind the team’s success were two dedicated mentors from APU’s School of Accounting and Finance (SoAF): Ms Phuah Eng Sze and Ms Ili Syahirah Kamaruzaman. Their expert advice and unwavering support guided the team through both the qualifying and final rounds, ensuring the students were well‑prepared, poised and strategic. 

Their mentorship exemplifies how APU empowers staff to cultivate not just strong grades but also real‑world competencies. 

A Prestigious Platform for Next‑Gen Accountants

Organised by the Multimedia University Accounting Club (MMUAC) in collaboration with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants, N‑IVAQ is a premier annual tournament that showcases Malaysia’s most gifted accounting undergraduates. 

With finalists from a spectrum of institutions—including Universiti Malaya, Taylor’s University, Swinburne Sarawak, Universiti Selangor, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Multimedia University, and Peninsula College Malaysia—the level of competition is exceptionally high. 

While Universiti Malaya dominated as champion and first runner‑up—continuing their storied success—APU’s team seized the spotlight with their incisive analysis and confident delivery. They secured their second runner‑up position along with a cash prize of RM 599 and individual certificates, which was an affirmation of their hard work and skill. 

APU’s Commitment to Academic and Professional Development 

Securing a top‑three national ranking at such a prestigious event is a testament to APU’s unwavering dedication to academic excellence, practical experience, and professional readiness. 

Through intensive training, expert mentorship, and an environment that fosters critical thinking, students are transformed into confident, agile graduates. 

APU’s teaching philosophy emphasises:

• Rigorous theoretical foundations across accounting disciplines
• Real‑world case applications embedded in coursework and co‑curricular challenges
• Mentorship and guidance, ensuring students are supported from learning to competition
• Technological integration, preparing graduates for modern finance environments
   

This achievement by Umair, Lau, Tai, and Syafiqah proves that APU’s investment in quality education and innovative pedagogy is bearing fruit. 

Continuing the Legacy

As APU celebrates this impressive milestone, SoAF remains committed to nurturing even more future champions. With upcoming workshops, industry partnerships, internship opportunities, and co‑curricular competitions, APU is setting a clear trajectory for students to thrive nationally—and ultimately globally. 

APU looks forward to many more successes at national and international competitions, continuing to define what it means to excel in education, innovation, and professional readiness.