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On 6 August, the School of Business (SoB) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) organised an educational field trip to APR Electronic Service Sdn Bhd, a local leader in IT asset management, refurbishment, repair, and e-waste recycling. 

The visit brought together 32 students from APU’s Foundation Studies, Diploma in Business, and Master of Business Administration (MBA) specialising in Supply Chain Management programmes. 

Accompanied by Ms Shailaja Kumar, Lecturer at the Graduate School of Business, and Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj, Lecturer at the School of Business, the group embarked on a journey designed to connect theory with practice in supply chain logistics and operations management. 

Industry Engagement and Entrepreneurial Inspiration

The visiting group was warmly welcomed by Mr Danny Ng, Managing Director of APR Electronic Services. He shared his entrepreneurial journey, including his experience mentoring business leaders through the Singapore Business Federation. 

His session highlighted the importance of innovation, resilience, and adaptability in navigating the fast-evolving global business landscape. 

During an introductory briefing, Mr Ng explained that APR’s operations are rooted in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and Green Technology. As the Department of Environment’s (DOE) official e-waste management partner, APR is guided by its tagline, “Making laptops green & affordable to Malaysia”. 

The company collects retired IT devices from corporations, including Fortune 500 companies, and empowers young people to repair and remarket refurbished equipment for underserved communities. 

This sustainable initiative directly reflects United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, offering APU students a living example of how ethical business practices can address social and environmental needs while driving innovation. 

Inside the Green Supply Chain

Students had the opportunity to tour APR’s facility and witness the intricate processes of a sustainable supply chain. From the sorting of retired gadgets to refurbishment and remarketing, they observed how circular economy models are practically implemented. 

Adding further value, Mr Ng conducted a 60-minute guest lecture, offering insights into ESG-aligned distribution models, entrepreneurial opportunities within the green supply chain, and potential career pathways in this growing field. 

He also shared APR’s collaborations with Cari Internet Sdn Bhd, operator of Cari.com.my, one of Malaysia’s largest Chinese and Malay lifestyle platforms, and the company’s weekend training programmes designed to nurture future entrepreneurs by equipping both students and adults with essential digital and business skills. 

Student Reflections: Learning beyond the Classroom

The visit was not only an academic exercise but also an eye-opening encounter with sustainable business practices and entrepreneurial innovation. Students walked away with fresh perspectives on how supply chain management can shape both business growth and community impact. 

Here are some of their reflections:

“The tour was inspiring! I never realised how much old gadgets could do for society once refurbished. It was fascinating to see technology get a second life, making it more affordable for those in need. I learned a lot, especially about how such initiatives supported communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.” – Veronica Faustina Koo Ee-Han, Foundation Programme (Computing & Technology Route) 

“I found the visit incredibly educational. I now understand the complexity behind recycling damaged phones and laptops before they can be resold as quality products. The whole trip was well organised and insightful.” – Thonedray Hnin Eain, Foundation Programme (Computing & Technology Route) 

“Watching the technology in action was amazing! It gave me a new appreciation for how much effort goes into making refurbished products reliable and valuable. The experience was enjoyable from start to finish.” – Pun Zi Xuan, Foundation Programme (Computing & Technology Route) 

Shaping Future-Ready Graduates

Through this field trip, APU once again demonstrated its commitment to providing students with experiential learning opportunities that bridge classroom theory with real-world practice. 

By engaging with industry leaders such as APR, students are equipped with the entrepreneurial mindset, ethical grounding, and innovative thinking needed to thrive in a future shaped by sustainability and green technology.