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Empowering Education, Bridging Inequalities

18 Sep 2025, 05:11 pm

APU Champions Inclusivity Through CSR

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APU’s Sustainable Future Fusion (APU SFF), in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur Tourism, Entrepreneurs, and Stakeholders Association (KLTESA), carried out a significant initiative to support underprivileged children at Yayasan Chow Kit. (Front row, from left to right) Mr Norman Rashid (KLTESA mentor), Mr Kenneth Oh (KLTESA President), Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj (SFF Advisor), Ms Kaladewi Balakrishnan (Yayasan Chow Kit Children's Activity Centre Manager), Ms Mayli Lim (KLTESA Chair – Social), Mr Low Jiun Jack (KLTESA Mentor), Mr Khoo Hock Aun (KLTESA Chair - Partnership & Projects), and Mr Khoo Lay Yang (SFF President). 


At the heart of Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) lies a strong belief in inclusivity—welcoming, supporting, and valuing every student regardless of their abilities or differences. 

This philosophy is not confined to classrooms alone; it extends into the community, where APU actively seeks to uplift and empower those who may otherwise be overlooked. 

The university continues to demonstrate that education is not merely about imparting knowledge, but also about instilling values of empathy, responsibility, and social stewardship in its students. 

A Meaningful Collaboration for Refugee Children 

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APU SFF President Khoo Lay Yang (centre) and Advisor Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj (second from right) with the leadership and committee members of KLTESA take a group picture at the entrance of the learning centre of Yayasan Chow Kit. 


On 3rd September, APU’s Sustainable Future Fusion (APU SFF), in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur Tourism, Entrepreneurs, and Stakeholders Association (KLTESA), carried out a significant initiative to support underprivileged children. 

The team donated three refurbished laptops and one refurbished tablet to refugee children at Yayasan Chow Kit, a learning centre managed by the Chow Kit Foundation. This Malaysian non-profit organisation provides comprehensive care, advocacy, and educational support for at-risk children and youth in the Chow Kit area of Kuala Lumpur. 

The contribution, though modest in numbers, carries profound significance. More than 75 refugee children under Yayasan Chow Kit’s care will benefit from improved access to digital resources, opening doors to online learning, skill-building, and new opportunities. 

Answering a Call for Help

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The refurbished laptop given to the home refugee students is not merely a technological tool but is a bridge to knowledge, creativity, and aspiration.


The donation was made in direct response to an urgent request from Yayasan Chow Kit, which highlighted the lack of digital devices as a major barrier to the children’s education. 

APU SFF and KLTESA responded promptly, recognising that education is only truly inclusive when learners are equipped with the tools they need. 

This swift action is also in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Education for Sustainable Development, ensuring equal opportunities for all children to thrive. 

Enabling Learning Beyond the Classroom

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With this tablet, children at Yayasan Chot Kit will now be able to explore digital learning platforms, strengthen their academic abilities, and cultivate essential digital literacy skills. 


The refurbished devices are not merely technological tools; they are bridges to knowledge, creativity, and aspiration. 

With laptops and tablets, the children will now be able to explore digital learning platforms, strengthen their academic abilities, and cultivate essential digital literacy skills. 

Such access helps reduce educational inequalities and places them on a more level footing with their peers. 

Building upon past engagements, APU SFF has consistently extended support to Yayasan Chow Kit. Previously, the team conducted workshops to teach children presentation and design skills using PowerPoint and Canva. 

This latest initiative strengthens that relationship, demonstrating APU’s long-term commitment to holistic learning. 

Supporting Holistic Development

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Alongside the laptops and a tablet, APU SFF brought joy to the children by providing them with educational games. 


Alongside the laptops and a tablet, APU SFF brought joy to the children by providing educational games, including Snakes & Ladders, board games, and Rubik’s Cubes. 

They also donated RM200 worth of edibles, underscoring the importance of balancing learning with play and nutrition. This approach aligns with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, reflecting APU’s belief that education must address the overall well-being of children, not just their academic performance. 

Voices of Gratitude and Hope 

The initiative received heartfelt appreciation from the beneficiaries and partners alike. 

Ms Kaladewi Balakrishnan, Centre Manager for Children’s Activity Centre at Yayasan Chow Kit, remarked, “Receiving this laptop means more than just having a device—it opens a door to learning, creativity, and new opportunities. I am truly thankful to APU SFF and KLTESA for believing in us and helping us build a brighter future.” 

Mr Kenneth Oh, President of KLTESA, echoed these sentiments, emphasising, “Education is the foundation of empowerment. By supporting these children with both learning tools and activities that stimulate creativity, we are investing in their future and allowing them to thrive.” 

Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj, Advisor of SFF and Lecturer at APU’s School of Business (SoB), added, “This collaboration demonstrates the strength of working together for a meaningful cause. We hope this contribution inspires more initiatives that empower children and build a brighter future.” 

Meanwhile, Khoo Lay Yang, President of SFF, reinforced the spirit behind the initiative, stating, “Our goal has always been to create opportunities where they are most needed. Education is a powerful tool, and we are glad to support these children with access to technology that will enhance their learning journey.” 

APU’s Enduring Commitment to Community Empowerment 

This collaboration underscores APU’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and community empowerment. 

Beyond academic excellence, APU nurtures students who embody compassion, civic responsibility, and leadership. 

The values imparted within its campus inspire initiatives that ripple outward, touching lives far beyond the university’s walls. 

As APU SFF and its partners continue their journey, their efforts serve as a reminder that true education extends beyond personal achievement—it is about lifting others, reducing inequalities, and creating opportunities for all. 

Through meaningful collaborations such as this, APU demonstrates the transformative impact of education that is grounded in values, vision, and a shared sense of humanity.