A team of students from the School of Marketing and Management (SoMM) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) proudly secured the Merit Award (Third Place) at the Malaysia Business Events National Challenge 2025 on 9th August 2025.

Team members Kit Yong Sien, Soh Kai Feng, Chin Lok Nee, and Chua Zhuo Han represented APU with their innovative business event proposal; Agri-Blockchain Expo 2025 (ABE 2025).

This achievement was made possible through the mentorship of Mr Philip Tan Hock Guan (Lecturer, SoMM at APU), Mr David Ng Kok Meng (Senior Lecturer and Academic Leader, SoMM at APU), and Ms Harjinder Kaur (Senior Lecturer and IAP Coordinator, SoMM at APU).

Spotlight on ABE 2025

ABE 2025 was developed as a platform to showcase how emerging technologies can address challenges in the agriculture sector.

By applying blockchain to event management, the team proposed a concept that enhances supply chain reliability, improves information transparency, and supports more sustainable practices.

The business event proposal was well received for showing how a business event could move beyond a showcase platform to become a catalyst for industry innovation, bridging agricultural stakeholders with technology providers in meaningful collaboration, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 9, 12, and 17 (SDG 9, SDG 12, and SDG 17).

Additionally, judges noted that the business event proposal stood out for its practicality, linking academic concepts with solutions that could be applied in real industry settings.

Expanding APU’s Footprint

In addition to the team’s success, APU was also represented by postgraduate students across different disciplines:

1. Masters in Global Marketing Management: Arman Moldagaliyev
2. Master of Business Administration: Aigul Yerzhigitova
3. Master of Science in International Business Communications: Davin Hillaro and Malika Narkuzieva
    

These students gained valuable experience by presenting creative solutions, engaging with industry leaders, and strengthening their skills in teamwork, pitching, and professional communication. 

Rising higher after First Steps 

APU’s achievement this year follows the university’s first-ever participation in the Malaysia Business Events National Challenge 2024, where SoMM students presented a compelling business event proposal; Medical Tourism Conference 2024. (This article can also be read on our website here).

Guided by the same dedicated mentors, the 2024 team impressed the judges with their creativity and strategic insights, laying a strong foundation for future achievements despite not advancing to the regional stage. 

That experience not only inspired peers but also strengthened APU’s presence in the business events arena, paving the way for the 2025 team’s breakthrough with a podium finish.

Reflections of Resilience

The team reflected that their participation was both a test of resilience and an opportunity for growth. 

“It pushed us to move beyond classroom knowledge and apply our ideas in ways that could create real impact.

“We learned to adjust our strategies on the spot, remain steady in high-pressure moments, and trust each other’s strengths to deliver our best work.

“Also, we are truly grateful to APU and our mentors for their unwavering support, which inspired us to push our limits and aim higher as future professionals,” they said.

APU’s Commitment to Student Growth

The mentors expressed how proud they were to see the students transform their ideas into a recognised project. 

“We witnessed their teamwork grow stronger with every stage of preparation, and that growth was just as valuable as the award itself.

“As mentors, we are glad to have guided them, but it was their dedication and commitment that truly drove this achievement,” they said.

On top of that, Assoc Prof Dr Devinder Kaur (Head, SoMM at APU) highlighted that participating in such national platforms not only sharpens students’ professional and problem-solving skills, but also provides valuable exposure to industry standards and expectations.

“This achievement is a testament to APU’s dedication to nurturing students who are capable of competing, innovating, and excelling on both national and international stages.”