Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation’s (APU) Community Engagement (ACE) Club contributed to meaningful community initiatives supporting underprivileged children, dementia care awareness, and animal welfare, while gaining valuable experiences through their volunteer efforts that strengthened their empathy, skills, and commitment to social responsibility.

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Demonstrating their commitment to community engagement and social responsibility, students from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) participated in a series of meaningful volunteer initiatives throughout June, supporting underprivileged children, individuals living with dementia, and animal welfare organisations.

The month began on 6 June, when 10 APU student volunteers took part in the ArtSpeak English Reading Programme organised by Hope Worldwide Malaysia.

The programme provided free English reading lessons to children from underprivileged families, helping them improve their literacy skills while building confidence in learning. 

Working alongside the teacher in charge, the volunteers guided the children through reading activities, created an encouraging learning environment, and organised interactive games, with stationery and goodie bags distributed as prizes to all participants.

Reflecting on the experience, Engineering student Ahmed Maher said, “Engaging with the children made me realise how meaningful actions as small as just spending time with these children could be. Truly eye-opening.” 

A week later, on 13 June, another group of 10 APU students attended a Dementia Care Skills Workshop organised by the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM). 

The workshop equipped volunteers with the knowledge and practical skills required to better support individuals living with dementia during future community outreach programmes.

Participants gained valuable insights into dementia, effective communication techniques, and caregiving practices that promote dignity, comfort, and understanding.

Extending their commitment to community service, APU students also dedicated their efforts to animal welfare through two volunteer programmes organised by SPCA Selangor.

On 23 June, five volunteers participated in the organisation’s annual gotong-royong event, assisting veterinarians in preparing stray cats and dogs, as well as pets belonging to underprivileged owners, for neutering procedures. 

Through the collective efforts of the veterinary team and volunteers, 50 cats successfully underwent the procedure, contributing to a more humane and sustainable approach to managing the stray animal population.

Sharing her experience, Media Communications student Himajasri Nedumaran said, “Volunteering in programmes like these exposes me to knowledge and experiences beyond my own field. 

“We are always grateful for the opportunity to lend a helping hand and support those in need.”

The volunteering efforts continued on 27 June, when 25 APU students and alumni joined SPCA Selangor’s monthly Pet Care Programme.

Throughout the day, the volunteers walked dogs, fed the animals, cleaned shelter facilities, and assisted with various operational tasks to help provide a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for the animals under the shelter’s care.

Commenting on the month’s initiatives, Ms Abbhirami Sivarajan, ACE Adviser and Lecturer at the School of Business (SoB) said volunteering is not only about giving back to the community, but also about learning from the people and causes we serve. 

“Through these diverse programmes, our students developed empathy, practical skills, and a deeper understanding of the needs of different communities, whether supporting children, individuals living with dementia, or promoting animal welfare.

“I hope they continue carrying this sense of compassion and responsibility into their future volunteer initiatives.”

These volunteer activities reflected APU’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible graduates who actively contribute to society beyond the classroom. 

By engaging in educational support, healthcare awareness, and animal welfare initiatives, students broadened their perspectives, developed valuable life skills, and strengthened their sense of empathy and civic responsibility, preparing them to make a meaningful and lasting impact within their communities.