Priyashini Nagarajan, a first-year Mechatronic Engineering student at the Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU), has been awarded the prestigious IEM (Institution of Engineers, Malaysia) Book Prize Award. 

This highly regarded recognition is presented to exceptional first-year engineering students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and active involvement in engineering-related activities. 

Mentorship and Recognition at the National Level

Under the guidance of esteemed academics from APU’s School of Engineering (SoE) – Assistant Professor Ir EUR ING Ts Dr Lau Chee Yong, Programme Leader of Computer Engineering, and Lecturer Ir Dr Lian Wen Xun – Priyashini received this distinguished accolade at the IEM President’s office on 30 May 2025.

The award includes a specially inscribed book titled “The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia Book Prize for the Best First Year Engineering Student”, personally signed by IEM President, Prof Ir Dr Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin.

Encouraging Lifelong Learning Among Future Engineers

The IEM Book Prize Award aims to motivate young engineers to cultivate a habit of reading and referencing reliable sources. It reinforces the importance of continuous learning and intellectual curiosity—values that are foundational to the engineering profession and championed at APU.

Dr Lau shared his pride in Priyashini’s success, stating, “Priyashini exemplifies the qualities we seek in our engineering students – academic excellence, dedication, and a genuine passion for learning. Her achievement reflects not only her merit but also the quality of education and mentorship we strive to provide at APU.”

Acknowledging a Role Model for Aspiring Engineers

Associate Professor Ir Ts Dr Siva Kumar Sivanesan, Head of the School of Engineering at APU, also commended Priyashini’s stellar performance:

“Priyashini has demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and dedication to her studies throughout her first year. Her commitment to excellence and passion for mechatronic engineering make her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers

Priyashini’s achievement stands as a testament to APU’s dedication to nurturing outstanding talent within Malaysia’s engineering landscape. Her recognition not only inspires her peers but also reinforces the university’s reputation for producing graduates who are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to the industry.

The award ceremony further underscored the strong collaboration between APU and the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia, in fostering engineering excellence and empowering the nation’s future engineering leaders.