APU Digital Marketing undergraduates visited the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), an experience that provided real-world insights into digital citizenship (online ethics, safety, misinformation) and MCMC’s sustainability initiatives (energy efficiency, waste management), significantly enhancing their understanding of digital responsibility and environmental stewardship and inspiring them as future professionals.

Thirty eager Digital Marketing undergraduates from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation’s (APU) School of Marketing and Management (SoMM) embarked on an illuminating industry visit to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). 

Ms Harjinder Kaur, Senior Lecturer and Industry Advisory Panel (IAP) Coordinator, carefully organised this great chance, with the goal of bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.

“I wanted my students to experience first-hand how digital governance and sustainability are practised at a national level. MCMC provided the perfect platform for them to connect theory with practice,” explained Ms Harjinder.

The students were brimming with excitement as they eagerly explored MCMC’s operations and engaged in two interactive knowledge-sharing sessions led by seasoned industry experts. 

These sessions offered invaluable insights into digital responsibility and environmental sustainability — two crucial pillars of modern professional and personal life.

The excursion kicked off with a warm welcome from Ms Haryati Suradi, Head of the Human Capital Division. 

This was followed by the first sharing session on ‘Digital Citizenship: Digital Etiquette and Responsibilities’, presented by Ms Hareeza Izzureen Ghazali from the Centre for Communications Safety Department.

During the initial session, students were introduced to the concept of digital citizenship, emphasising the importance of responsible and ethical behaviour in the digital sphere. 

Ms Hareeza guided them through the principles of digital etiquette, covering respectful communication, appropriate content sharing, and the vital role of empathy in online interactions.

The session also delved into online safety, highlighting the risks of cyber threats and the crucial need to protect personal data. 

Students were introduced to practical tools like Sebenarnya.my, a platform developed by MCMC to help verify news and combat misinformation — an essential skill in today’s information-rich environment. 

Furthermore, the discussion covered ethical technology use, encouraging students to respect intellectual property and avoid digital misconduct like plagiarism. 

This insightful discussion empowered students to become more aware of their digital footprint and to act as responsible digital citizens.

The second sharing session, ‘MCMC Sustainability & Green Building Initiatives/Efforts’, was expertly delivered by Ts Nurul Farahanna Aziz from the Facilities Management Department.

This session spotlighted MCMC’s dedication to sustainability and green practices where she shared how MCMC seamlessly integrates environmentally friendly initiatives into its infrastructure, including the adoption of energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and smart building technologies.

Students learned about the organisation’s efforts in waste management, water conservation, and carbon footprint reduction, all of which align with global sustainability goals. 

Cultivating digital responsibility and green innovation

Following the informative sessions, students were treated to a special tour of MCMC’s rooftop green facility, allowed them to witness first-hand the green building features discussed earlier. 

The rooftop proudly showcased wind turbines, solar panels, and lush greenery, all cleverly integrated into the building’s design to promote energy efficiency and environmental harmony. 

This immersive experience powerfully demonstrated how sustainability can be woven into the very fabric of an organisation. 

The rooftop serves not only as a functional green space but also as a symbol of MCMC’s long-term commitment to environmental stewardship, reflecting how modern institutions can lead by example in reducing their ecological footprint while fostering innovation.

Muhammad Daniel Shar Kawi Hazim, a 3rd year Digital Marketing student, appreciated the open dialogue about career opportunities. 

“I valued the MCMC team’s candour in discussing career pathways and digital marketing roles within the commission. 

“Their thoughtful responses gave me clear clarity and confidence about my future. The session reaffirmed my interest in contributing to Malaysia’s digital ecosystem,” he shared enthusiastically.

His classmate, Vivekganandan B. Vadivellu, found the visit “fun, informative, and eye-opening.”

He added, “I enjoyed learning about the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia, especially the behind-the-scenes look at MCMC’s infrastructure. The discussions on cyberbullying and digital ethics were particularly impactful. The team was super friendly, and the experience was unforgettable.”

For Nurfatihah Monjurul Alam, the visit was “more than just educational — it was a reality check.” 

She continued, “We were struck by how seriously MCMC tackles data privacy, misinformation, and cyber safety — issues that are increasingly relevant in the digital marketing world.” 

Teng Chun Hong, a 2nd year Digital Marketing student, reflected on his own online behaviour. 

“As a digital native, this visit made me reflect on how I behave online. The session on cyberbullying reminded us of the real-world impact of digital actions. 

“We also found MCMC’s rooftop green features — like wind turbines and solar panels — inspiring, prompting us to think about energy efficiency in my own life. It made me rethink how I can live more sustainably,” he shared.

This visit not only enriched their academic knowledge but also empowered them to become thoughtful, responsible, and forward-thinking professionals.

Associate Professor Dr Devinder Kaur added that digital responsibility is now more is more important than ever. 

“Students need to know that every action taken in the digital space can have real-world consequences. Understanding good digital citizenship will help to create a healthier, safer, and respectful online world for everyone.” 

She also acknowledged that this visit was possible due to the relationship with Industry Advisor Panellist, Ms Eneng Faridah Iskandar Sastrawidjaja, MCMC Chief Enforcement Officer. 

To mark the occasion, a meaningful exchange of gifts took place between MCMC and APU as a gesture of appreciation. 

Special thanks were also extended to Ms Nur Syahirah Ramli, Deputy Director of the Employee Relations Department, Human Capital Division, for the warm hospitality provided throughout the excursion, including the luncheon and the superbly organised visit arrangements.