The conference brought together academics, industry experts, and thought leaders to discuss sustainable business solutions and inspired future research; and APU researchers were honoured for their innovative work, solidifying the university’s commitment in promoting international dialogue, innovation, and sustainable business practices.

The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation’s (APU) School of Business (SoB) recently made significant strides in the field of sustainable business by co-hosting the ‘Sustainable Business Engagement International Conference’ with the Association of Malaysian Environment Behaviour Researchers (AMER), in partnership with Emerald Publishing. 

Held at the prestigious Hotel Everly in Putrajaya on 22nd and 23rd October 2024, the conference brought together a diverse group of academics, industry leaders, and thought leaders to discuss and explore the latest trends and innovations in sustainable business practices.

The conference was inaugurated with a warm welcome address by Prof Dr Kashif Hussain, APU’s Senior Head of SoB and School of Global Hospitality & Tourism (SoGHT).

This was followed by an inspiring opening speech by Prof Ts Dr Murali Raman, APU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Development and a welcome address by Associate Professor Dr Rohana Sham, President of AMER.

The event featured a line-up of distinguished keynote speakers, including Prof Dr Marina Papanastassiou, Professor of International Business at the Department of International Business and Centre, Leeds University; Ms Zarina Nalla, former COO of the Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (MIER); and Ms Dolores Csabai, Co-founder, and Strategic Partner & Business Advisor at Litvill Hungary and the Litvill Lesson Association in India.

These experts shared their insights and experiences on a range of topics related to sustainable business, fostering stimulating discussions and inspiring future research.

A testament to APU’s commitment to research excellence, two papers authored by APU researchers were honoured with the prestigious Emerald Innovative Research Excellence Award. 

The awarded papers are:

• Antecedents of Initial Trust and Effect of Initial Trust on Intention to Adopt Mobile Banking Services Offered by Islamic Banks in Pakistan: Moderating Role of Gender, by Dua Bilal Naqeeb, Jugindar Singh Kartar Singh, Noraini Ahmad, and Sharifa Khamis Saud al-Toubi.
   
• An Analysis of Shopee Users’ Decisions Influenced by Price, Promotion, and Product Quality: A Quantitative Study in Palembang, Indonesia, by Athirah Mohd Tan, Syazwani Yahaya, Rohana Sham, Sonia Umair, and Noraini Ahmad.

This achievement underscores APU’s dedication to producing high-quality research that addresses real-world challenges and contributes to sustainable development.

The success of this conference reinforces APU’s position as a leading institution in promoting international dialogue, fostering innovation, and advancing sustainable business practices. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the SoB and AMER, and all the individuals involved in making this event a resounding success.