Corporate and Campus Voices Unite at APU to Drive Sustainable Innovation

Image

On 24 July 2025, the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) played host to a dynamic and enlightening dialogue session in collaboration with PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad (PDB), titled “Corporate & Campus Voices on Green Innovation.” 

The event, held at APU’s campus in Technology Park Malaysia, marked a meaningful exchange between corporate leaders, academics, and students, all committed to charting a greener future. 

The dialogue brought together three distinguished speakers: Mr Nadjme Yusuf, Head of Sustainability at PDB; Professor Ts Dr Murali Raman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Development & Strategy) at APU; and Professor Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer at APU. 

Together, they explored the shifting sustainability landscape, examined the realities of implementing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, and reaffirmed the vital role that universities must play in nurturing future-ready, sustainability-minded graduates. 

Insights from Industry and Academia

As Malaysia’s leading downstream oil and gas retailer, PDB is no stranger to the challenges of ESG transformation. Speaking on the importance of partnerships, Mr Nadjme Yusuf remarked: “Sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Collaborations like this are essential to bridge corporate goals with academic insights, ensuring we move forward together.”

Echoing this, Prof Murali Raman highlighted the university’s ethos: “At APU, we believe sustainability is not just a concept—it’s a commitment. Through education, research, and community engagement, we aim to empower our students to become changemakers in the green economy.” 

Prof Vinesh Thiruchelvam added a crucial perspective on co-creation: “Green innovation is a shared responsibility. Academia must work hand-in-hand with industry to co-create solutions that are both impactful and scalable.” 

Empowering Students Through Experience

Organised by the student-led “Grease to Green initiative”, the event included a speed ideathon aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), further encouraging student engagement and creativity. 

Moderating the session with poise and professionalism was Nuha Mardhiyyah Headir, a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialism in Data Analytics student. 

Reflecting on her experience, she shared: “It was truly an honour to moderate such a meaningful discussion with renowned sustainability experts. I learned a lot from the speakers, and I hope the students attending felt more empowered to incorporate sustainability into their journey forward.” 

Building a Sustainable Mindset 

The session proved to be more than just an academic exercise—it was a practical learning platform for students aiming to develop the sustainable mindset needed in tomorrow’s corporate world. 

Understanding ESG not only equips future leaders to align business strategies with global sustainability goals but also empowers them to innovate, meet stakeholder expectations, and navigate increasingly complex regulatory environments. 

APU continues to take its place at the forefront of this transformation. In today’s rapidly evolving world, sustainability is no longer a choice—it is a strategic imperative. As a leading institution of higher learning, APU is dedicated to cultivating ethical, resilient leaders capable of driving positive change for both society and the planet. 

Celebrating Student Leadership

The success of this event would not have been possible without the outstanding efforts of the Grease to Green organising team. Their hard work behind the scenes brought together minds and ideas that will continue to inspire. 

Grease to Green Organising Team:

• Poh Yu Zhe
• Nuha Mardhiyyah Binti Headir
• Amirah Atiqah Binti Muhammad Nizam
• Fatiya Dhiya Shaumi
• Lai Wei Quan
• Lee Shin Yee
• Leong Zhen Hui
• Lim Shin Er
• Mohammed Ismail Elbagir Hussein
• Muhammad Zaman
• Sim Yee Cong
• Too Lik Heng
   

With initiatives like these, APU reaffirms its commitment to shaping a sustainable future.