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Student volunteers from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) Community Engagement Club (ACE) were recently honoured with the “Paw-sitive Impact Award” for their steadfast dedication to animal welfare. 

This accolade not only recognises their service but also reflects APU’s broader mission of nurturing well-rounded graduates who embody empathy, responsibility, and community-minded leadership. 

For the past five years, ACE volunteers have been actively involved with Furrykids Safehaven (FKSH), a major Malaysian animal welfare NGO and dog shelter in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. Their long-standing collaboration began during the pandemic, when the shelter faced unprecedented strain and a shortage of resources. 

At a time when social and economic challenges were widespread, APU students stepped forward, driven not by obligation but by a shared belief in making meaningful contributions beyond the classroom. 

At FKSH’s Annual Fundraising Gala Night on 8 November 2025, the award was received on behalf of APU by Himajasri Nedumaran, a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Media and Communication Studies undergraduate, and Ngan Junn Fai, a Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Intelligent Systems graduate. Their presence symbolised the collective spirit of countless APU students and staff who have supported the shelter over the years. 

APU’s philosophy emphasises whole-person development, where academic success is complemented by cultivating compassion, teamwork, and social awareness. 

Through their involvement with FKSH, students have learned how community service builds character and reinforces a sense of shared responsibility. From painting the new shelter building and creating mural art to brightening the space, to donating dog food, cleaning supplies, and other essentials valued at RM50,000, their efforts have helped FKSH remain a haven for rescued animals during challenging times. 

In September 2025, APU students continued their involvement by supporting FKSH’s adoption drive at St. Mark’s 120th Anniversary Food & Funfair Carnival. They helped run booths, supported puppy adoption activities, and donated more than 20 bags of rice, further demonstrating their commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership. 

Reflecting on the experience, Himajasri shared, “Providing help wherever we can not only creates a positive impact in the community but also gives us firsthand experiences that deepen our understanding of empathy and compassion. I hope we at APU can continue providing a helping hand where it matters the most.”

The “Paw-sitive Impact Award” stands as an encouragement for APU to continue fostering meaningful partnerships and empowering students to serve with humility and purpose. As Ms Abbhirami Sivarajan, Lecturer at the School of Business and Advisor of ACE, noted, “Looking ahead, we hope to keep supporting animal welfare initiatives and to inspire more students to take part in compassionate service in their own ways.”