In conjunction with the annual World Animal Day celebrated in October, student volunteers from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) were recently honoured for their long-standing dedication to animal welfare. This recognition, presented by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), underscores the university’s enduring commitment to shaping well-rounded graduates who not only pursue academic excellence but also embody the values of empathy, responsibility, and service.

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At a ceremony held on 18 October, DYMM Tengku Permaisuri Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Hajah Norashikin—who also serves as the Royal Patron of Stray Free Selangor—presented an appreciation award to APU. The honour was received on behalf of the university by Ms Abbhirami Sivarajan, Lecturer at the School of Business (SoB), alongside a group of devoted student volunteers. This gesture was more than an acknowledgement of APU’s past efforts; it reaffirmed the university’s steadfast pledge to meaningful community engagement through ongoing, compassionate initiatives.

SPCA has recognised APU’s contributions through several awards over the years, including the “Most Supportive Pet Care Programme Participants Award” in 2017, 2022, and 2023, as well as the “Animal Welfare Contribution Recognition” in 2024.

APU’s partnership with SPCA Selangor has been active for many years, with students and staff regularly participating in the shelter’s monthly Pet Care Programme. Many volunteers dedicate their weekends to walking dogs, feeding cats, cleaning animal enclosures, and assisting caretakers with daily tasks. These simple yet impactful acts allow students to step beyond the classroom and experience firsthand the value of service in building character and emotional maturity.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Mr Gurpardeep Singh, Chief Operating Officer at APU, stated, “The commitment shown by our students underscores a fundamental belief at APU—that education must cultivate not only intellectual capability but also integrity and compassion. Their continuous support for SPCA, particularly during periods of heightened need, exemplifies the holistic mindset we aim to instil. It is through such service that our students learn to lead with empathy and to contribute meaningfully to society.”

These opportunities have left a profound impact on participants. Chua Khai Tim, a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology student, shared, “I often had the opportunity to join SPCA’s volunteering programme, and each session has been both educational and enjoyable. I’m grateful that I have been able to help ease the burden carried by the shelter.” 

By nurturing a culture rooted in care and social responsibility, APU encourages students to develop into conscientious individuals who recognise their capacity to effect positive change. The World Animal Day celebrations further highlighted how APU’s partnership with SPCA embodies a shared aspiration: to foster a community where compassion and purposeful action uplift both animals and people. 

Through every volunteering effort, community initiative, and act of kindness, APU continues to shape a more caring and responsible generation. Over the past decade, the university and its community have also contributed up to RM100,000 to SPCA Selangor in support of its mission to protect and rehabilitate abandoned and vulnerable animals.