On 21st June 2025, the vibrant grounds of Technology Park Malaysia (TPM) were transformed into a glowing hub of energy and unity as Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)’s Community Engagement (ACE) hosted its flagship charity event — Neon Run 2025.

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Staying true to ACE’s mission of student-driven impact through service and wellness, the event brought together over 1,000 participants, including students, staff, and members of the public, for a day filled with excitement and meaningful engagement. 

Carnival Firsts and Creative Sparks

This year’s event introduced the first-ever Neon Carnival, held from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering a full-day experience that blended education, entertainment, and innovation. Highlights included the high-energy Battle of the Undergrads, where students competed in physical challenges, and the PLUG x PWN workshop, which explored cutting-edge cybersecurity tools and AI-powered payloads. 

Participants also engaged in psychology testing booths, karaoke sessions, and strategic board games like Cashflow Madness. Workshops on blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Canva design provided hands-on learning opportunities, while a 3D printing booth showcased the future of fabrication. 

Lighting the Night with Unity

As the sun set, anticipation built for the main event. The evening kicked off with an electrifying Zumba session, followed by the run itself at 8:00 PM. Over 600 runners lit up the TPM route with neon gear and glow sticks, creating a dazzling display of movement and unity. The run symbolised more than physical endurance — it was a collective stride towards making a difference.

Impact Beyond the Finish Line

Neon Run 2025 raised an impressive RM17,000, which was channelled to four deserving beneficiaries: SPCA Selangor, Furrykids Safehaven, The Hope Branch, and Rumah Kasih. These organisations support animal welfare, underprivileged communities, and the elderly — causes that resonate deeply with ACE’s values of empathy and engagement. 

Voices from the Heart

Chua Khai Tim, a Year 1 Psychology student and Head of Marketing for Neon Run, shared, “Seeing students light up the night and come together through the carnival energy of Neon Run is what makes all the hard work worth it.” 

Renuga Anamalay, Treasurer and Year 2 Accounting and Finance student, added, “We were tired from the preparations, but seeing the runners enjoy themselves made it all worthwhile.” 

Committee member Lin Howen, a Year 2 Cyber Security student, reflected, “It was a wholesome and fun experience collaborating with like-minded peers. Here's to more events together!” 

Powered by Generosity

ACE extends its sincere thanks to sponsors, including Red Bull, Three Legs, YouthSOS, Fitbar, Gear Up, Jisulife, Unilah, and Corntoz, whose support helped bring the event to life. 

A Legacy of Youth-Led Impact

Reflecting on the event, Mr Gurpardeep Singh, Chief Operating Officer of APU, remarked, “Neon Run 2025 was a brilliant display of youth-led initiative. It was about lights and running that ignited purpose and creating a meaningful impact.” 

As the final runners crossed the finish line, Neon Run 2025 left behind more than glowing trails — it left a legacy of compassion, collaboration, and change.