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Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) celebrated a proud milestone as Assistant Professor Ts Dr Siti Azreena Mubin, XR Studio Lead, emerged as the only Southeast Asian speaker invited to the prestigious Nordic VR Forum 2025. 

The event, held from 13 to 15 October 2025 in Hamar, Norway, brought together international leaders in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and immersive technologies for high-level discourse, innovation exchange, and future-thinking collaboration. 

Showcasing XR Innovation for Autism Support

Representing Malaysia on the global stage, Dr Siti Azreena delivered a compelling presentation on her groundbreaking XR-based screening tools for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developed through the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education. 

The project, rooted at APU’s XR Studio, integrates motion sensors, immersive learning environments, and healthcare innovation to reimagine early screening and intervention pathways. 

Her pioneering work demonstrates how immersive technologies can support greater accuracy in behavioural assessments while promoting inclusive education. The strong engagement from forum participants underscored the relevance and forward-thinking impact of her research. 

Strengthening APU’s Global Research Footprint

Dr Siti Azreena’s role as Southeast Asia’s sole speaker underscores her leadership in the region's XR research landscape. Her strengthening of global connections—through collaborations with Paris-Saclay University and the International Medical University (IMU)—reflects her ongoing commitment to multidisciplinary innovation and cross-border research synergy. 

Her presence at the Nordic VR Forum 2025 amplified Malaysia’s voice in global XR discourse and fostered opportunities for international collaboration, enabling colleagues and institutions worldwide to explore the potential of immersive technologies in health, education, and industry.

Leadership Endorsement: Driving Innovation Beyond Borders

Prof Ir EUR ING Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, Chief Innovation and Enterprise Officer at APU, commended the significance of this achievement, stating, “Dr Siti Azreena’s recognition on such a prestigious platform is a testament to her passion, her determination, and her deep expertise in XR innovation.” 

“Her work exemplifies the spirit of APU—pushing the boundaries of technology for real-world impact. Her contribution at the Nordic VR Forum not only showcases Malaysian innovation to the world, but also reinforces our role as a catalyst for transformative change in global immersive technology research,” continued Prof Vinesh. 

Championing Malaysia on the World Stage

Dr Siti Azreena’s participation elevated Malaysia’s visibility in the global XR community, inspired cross-border knowledge exchange, and opened new avenues for research partnerships. Her contribution highlights APU’s continued commitment to advancing immersive technology for societal benefit—strengthening its position as an institution at the forefront of innovation, expertise, and meaningful global engagement.