APU Community Engagement (ACE) Club volunteers advanced local healthcare and animal welfare through targeted volunteer initiatives, earning an Associate Membership Award at the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM) graduation ceremony while also assisting SPCA Selangor with shelter operations and animal care, highlighting the university’s commitment to community impact.

Learning extended far beyond campus walls throughout August 2026 as Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) students championed meaningful social causes, dedicating their energy to dementia care and animal welfare.

Organised by the APU Community Engagement (ACE) Club, these initiatives empowered students to connect deeply with diverse communities while developing real-world empathy and active citizenship.

On 6 August 2026, ten ACE Club volunteers attended the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia’s (ADFM) Mass Graduation of Unlocking Hope at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, where 200 participants celebrated completing the ‘Dementia Care Skill Training Courses’.

The momentous occasion brought together passionate advocates, community leaders, and healthcare organizations dedicated to elevating dementia care across Malaysia.

The gathering was graced by the Deputy Minister of Health Malaysia, Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib, who emphasised the vital need for national awareness and strategic partnerships to combat dementia.

Highlighting APU’s ongoing dedication to social impact, the student delegates were presented with an Associate Membership Award from ADFM. 

Standing alongside healthcare pioneers, the volunteers took a solemn pledge, reaffirming their commitment to advocating for individuals and families navigating the challenges of dementia.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ms Abbhirami Sivarajan, ACE Adviser and Lecturer at the School of Business (SoB), shared that participating in the ceremony offered students profound insights into compassionate caregiving and the necessity of grassroots community involvement.

Transitioning from healthcare advocacy to animal welfare, ACE volunteers headed to SPCA Selangor on 22 August 2026 for their monthly Pet Care Programme. 

Rolling up their sleeves, the students tackled daily shelter operations, ensuring cleaner, healthier living spaces for the rescued animals. 

Working alongside dedicated shelter staff, the volunteers gained valuable hands-on experience in animal care, handling, and behavioural needs.

Daanya Jessenia, a second-year Psychology student representing the volunteer cohort, expressed how rewarding it was to directly support the shelter while gaining a deeper appreciation for the relentless care required to prepare rescue animals for their forever homes.

By collaborating with established organizations like ADFM and SPCA Selangor, the ACE Club successfully demonstrated how student-led action can spark positive societal change while enriching personal and academic growth.