APU Hosts Culture & Sustainability Talk 2025

On 16 July 2025, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) proudly hosted the Culture & Sustainability Talk 2025, an inspiring platform that brought together voices from academia, industry, and the wider community.

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This event, held in anticipation of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, underscored the vital role of cultural heritage as a driver for sustainable development. 

Organised by the Sustainable Future Fusion Society at APU (SFF@APU) in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur Tourism Entrepreneurs and Stakeholder Association (KLTESA), the talk reflected a shared commitment to creating meaningful dialogue that bridges cultural diversity and sustainability. 

Carrying the theme “Harmony in Diversity, Strength in Dialogue: Culture as a Bridge to Sustainable Development,” the programme resonated strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) – specifically Goal 16: Partnerships for the Goals, and Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. These principles served as the foundation for discussions that emphasised partnerships, inclusivity, and responsible economic growth.

The session commenced with welcoming remarks by Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj, Lecturer at APU’s School of Business and Advisor to SFF@APU, alongside Mr Kenneth Oh, President of KLTESA. Both speakers set the tone by highlighting the importance of collaborative action in shaping a sustainable and culturally rich future.

A key highlight of the afternoon was the Special Talk titled “Culture, Sustainability & Responsibility: A Shared Future,” presented by Mr Khoo Hock Aun, an experienced industry mentor representing KLTESA. His insights illuminated the intersection between cultural preservation and sustainability within Malaysia’s tourism landscape.

Adding depth to the discourse, Dato’ Mirza Beg, Advisor to KLTESA, provided a brief but impactful report on the World Cultural Diversity Forum 2025, held earlier on 21 May 2025. His reflections emphasised how global dialogues can translate into local action for sustainable progress.

In a significant move towards fostering long-term partnerships, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between APU and KLTESA during the event, marking a strategic alliance aimed at reinforcing cross-sector collaboration for sustainable impact.

The session also served as a valuable learning experience for students. Sharifa Said Baharoon, from the Foundation Studies in Business, Finance & Social Sciences programme, reflected on gaining insights into tourism sustainability, particularly the ‘3S’ concept – Sun, Sea, and Sand – which are considered essential elements for any destination.

Ultimately, the Culture & Sustainability Talk 2025 served as a timely reminder that sustainable development extends beyond environmental stewardship. It calls for a profound respect for the diverse cultures that shape societies, positioning cultural heritage as an essential pillar for a future that is inclusive, responsible, and sustainable.