Two APU industry engagement leaders have been elected to prominent positions in NACDA Malaysia for 2026/2027, reflecting nationwide confidence in APU’s industry-connected education, career development expertise and commitment to preparing graduates for the evolving workforce.

Behind every successful graduate is a journey shaped not only by academic knowledge but also by meaningful industry exposure, career guidance and opportunities to connect with the professional world. At Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), this commitment to bridging education and employment has earned recognition beyond its campus. 

In a proud milestone for the University, two members of APU’s Corporate Training Office leadership team have been elected to key positions in the National Career Development Centre Association (NACDA Malaysia) Main Committee for the 2026/2027 term.

Dr Sryee Inthran, Director, Industry Engagement (Talent), has been elected President of NACDA Malaysia, while Mr Hariharan, Senior Lead, Industry Engagement (Talent), has been elected Director of NACDA Academy. 

Voted into office by member universities across Malaysia, their appointments reflect the higher education community’s confidence in APU’s leadership, industry engagement capabilities and contributions towards strengthening graduate employability. 

More importantly, the dual recognition underscores the value of APU’s career-focused approach, where industry partnerships, professional development and employment readiness form an integral part of the student journey. 

From Campus Experience to National Leadership 

As President of NACDA Malaysia, Dr Sryee will provide strategic direction to the association, spearheading initiatives that strengthen university career services, deepen collaboration between academia and industry, and enhance graduate employability nationwide. 

Drawing upon his experience in developing industry linkages and talent engagement initiatives at APU, Dr Sryee views his appointment as an opportunity to extend the impact of proven institutional practices to the wider higher education landscape.

"I am deeply honoured by the confidence placed in me by fellow career development professionals across Malaysia. My journey at APU has reinforced my belief that meaningful industry engagement must begin long before students graduate. The experience we have gained in connecting students with employers, understanding industry expectations and supporting their career aspirations provides a valuable foundation that I hope to bring to NACDA Malaysia.” 

“Through this national platform, I look forward to sharing best practices, strengthening partnerships among universities and industry, and creating greater opportunities for graduates across the country. Ultimately, our collective success should be measured by how effectively we prepare young Malaysians to thrive in the workforce and contribute to the nation's future."

Empowering the Professionals Who Shape Graduate Careers

Complementing this leadership appointment, Mr Hariharan will spearhead NACDA Academy's professional development initiatives as its Director. 

His responsibilities will encompass training, certification programmes and capacity-building opportunities designed to strengthen the competencies of career development practitioners across Malaysian higher education institutions. 

Recognising that effective career guidance requires continuous professional growth, Mr Hariharan aims to support practitioners in adapting to changing employment trends and evolving industry expectations.

"I am truly grateful to NACDA Malaysia's member institutions for entrusting me with this responsibility. Career development practitioners play an important role in helping students recognise their strengths, explore opportunities and navigate their transition into employment.” 

“Drawing upon my experience at APU, I hope to work closely with fellow practitioners to strengthen professional training, encourage knowledge-sharing and build a more connected career development community. By investing in the people who guide our students, we are ultimately investing in the success of future graduates."

Building Stronger Bridges Between Education and Employment 

The appointments further reinforce APU's commitment to creating meaningful connections between students and the professional world. 

Through its emphasis on industry engagement, career development and employability, APU continues to champion an educational experience that extends beyond classroom learning, helping students understand workplace expectations, develop professional confidence and navigate their career pathways. 

With both leaders now contributing at the national level, APU's experience and perspectives can help inform wider conversations on career readiness, industry collaboration and the development of Malaysia's future talent pipeline. 

Advancing a Shared National Mission 

Established on 3 October 2017, NACDA Malaysia, formerly known as the Career Development Centre Club (CDCC Malaysia), was inspired and recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). 

Representing more than 40 public and private universities nationwide, the association serves as a collective voice for university career development practitioners, connecting academia, industry and government to advance graduate employability and workforce readiness. 

APU congratulates Dr Sryee and Mr Hariharan on their appointments, celebrating a significant recognition of its leadership and a renewed opportunity to contribute towards a stronger, more industry-connected and future-ready generation of Malaysian graduates.