RapidScreen (M) Sdn. Bhd., operating as KrackedDevs, partnered with Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) to advance student skills in AI-assisted software development and cybersecurity, providing APU students access to hands-on ‘vibecoding’ workshops, Capture-the-Flag competitions, industry-mentored internships, and joint research projects designed to build market-ready digital expertise.

Image

In a major move to bridge the gap between cutting-edge industry practice and academic learning, RapidScreen (M) Sdn. Bhd., operating under the ecosystem brand ‘KrackedDevs’, officially inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU).

The agreement was signed by RapidScreen Chief Executive Officer Mr Danial Hadi Alias alongside APU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan at APU’s state-of-the-art campus.

The historic signing was witnessed by RapidScreen Data & Forward Deployed Engineering Lead (FDE), Mr Abdul Hafees Sadon and APU Senior Head School of Technology (SoT), Associate Professor Dr Thang Ka Fei.

RapidScreen, a leading Malaysian AI-builder and technology ecosystem, empowers developers through hands-on learning, experimentation, product deployment, and specialised technical training. 

Through its popular ‘vibecoding’ (AI-assisted programming) workshops, student-community initiatives, hackathons, and cybersecurity bootcamps, the platform has established itself as a vibrant hub for emerging technology talent.

KrackedDevs’ community reach (approx. 2,000 builders), track record of student-facing programming (hackathons, vibecoding sessions, the Jelajah AI MyMahir initiative).

Under the newly forged collaboration, RapidScreen and APU agreed to collaborate on a broad spectrum of initiatives focused on AI-assisted software development and cybersecurity for practical and student research applications. 

The strategic alliance emphasizes the promotion of knowledge and technology sharing between academic and industry players through tailored student internships, career opportunities, and related student development activities. 

Furthermore, both parties agreed to fund and jointly organize hackathons, Capture-the-Flag (CTF) cybersecurity competitions, and technology showcases, alongside guest speaking engagements at webinars and talks.

To ensure students receive comprehensive real-world guidance throughout these programs, RapidScreen will assign suitable and qualified industry mentors or supervisors to participants during internships and hackathons. 

Meanwhile, APU will identify and select candidate students and staff to participate in the activities while providing academic support, access to campus facilities, and necessary administrative coordination.

This MoU will benefit APU students, especially members of the APU Morpheus AI Club and APU Special Interest Group of Women in Security (ASIGWISE).

Both clubs are mentored by APU’s Industry Liaison Head of Technology, Assistant Professor Ts Dr Vinesha Selvarajah, and Associate Professor Dr Muhammad Ehsan Rana.

Highlighting the vision behind the collaboration, Mr Danial Hadi expressed his enthusiasm for empowering young innovators.

“Our ecosystem at KrackedDevs was built to transform enthusiastic learners into confident builders. By joining forces with APU, we are giving students front-row access to real-world AI tools, AI-assisted coding paradigms, and modern cybersecurity practices. 

“This partnership ensures that APU graduates do not just learn theoretical concepts. They leave university with battle-tested skills and market-ready digital products,” he said.

Emphasising the strategic importance for the university, Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan, highlighted that, APU constantly strive to align our curriculum with the fast-evolving demands of the global technology sector. 

“Partnering with a forward-thinking ecosystem builder like RapidScreen opens up invaluable avenues for our students. 

“From high-impact hackathons to mentored industrial projects, this MoU strengthens our commitment to producing industry-ready professionals who can immediately contribute to Malaysia’s digital economy,” he said.

Underlining the direct impact on student development, Associate Professor Dr Thang Ka Fei, added this collaboration brings an energetic, practical dynamic to SoT programmes. 

“Integrating industry-grade tools, ‘vibecoding’ methodologies, and hands-on Capture-the-Flag security challenges directly into our students’ learning journey will sharpen their problem-solving edge. 

“It provides our students with a real platform to showcase their talents directly to prospective employers and industry leaders,” he said.

The collaboration took shape following an engagement between Assistant Professor Dr Vinesha Selvarajah, and the RapidScreen team at the PDX Conference in Penang. 

Recognising the potential to bridge emerging AI technologies with practical cybersecurity education, she saw an opportunity to translate the connection into meaningful learning experiences for APU students. 

“Our priority is to ensure that students are not only equipped with strong technical foundations but are also given opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world environments. 

Partnerships like this allow us to bring industry closer to the classroom while preparing our graduates for the evolving demands of the technology landscape,” she said.