The experience at FESCO 2026 strengthened the team’s teamwork, discipline, and resilience while providing valuable exposure to inter-university competition standards, inspiring them to continue refining their performances and representing APU in future cultural events.

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Members of Rentak Tari, the traditional dance club of the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), proudly represented the university at the Festival of Colours of the World (FESCO 2026), held from 12 to 13 June 2026 at Chancellor Hall, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Perak.

The annual festival brought together talented student performers from higher education institutions across Malaysia, celebrating cultural diversity, creativity, and artistic excellence through vibrant dance and stage performances.

Competing under the Private University (IPTS) category, Rentak Tari was represented by a team of 13 students, comprising 12 dancers and one assistant crew member.

The event marked a significant milestone for the club, as it was their first-ever participation in FESCO.

Although they were newcomers to the competition, the team approached the experience with enthusiasm, determination, and a strong sense of pride. 

Performing on an inter-university stage gave the students a valuable opportunity to showcase their passion for traditional dance while proudly representing APU among institutions from across the country.

The students balanced rehearsals alongside their academic commitments while coordinating logistics, travel arrangements, costumes, and performance preparations within a limited timeframe.

Throughout the journey, the team strengthened not only their technical performance skills but also their ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and adapt to challenges. 

Every rehearsal and performance became an opportunity to grow both individually and collectively.

Although Rentak Tari did not progress to the final round, the experience proved to be immensely rewarding. 

It provided valuable insights into competition standards, stage management, technical coordination, and the level of preparation required to perform at a national inter-university event. 

Most importantly, it reinforced the importance of resilience, perseverance, and continuous improvement.

Their participation also reflected the impact of student-led initiatives in enriching campus life beyond the classroom. 

Through arts and cultural activities, students developed leadership, teamwork, confidence, and a deeper appreciation of Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage. 

FESCO 2026 marked only the beginning of Rentak Tari’s journey. The experience inspired the team to continue refining their performances, expanding their membership, and participating in more cultural showcases and competitions in the years ahead. 

Reflecting on the team’s achievement, Mr Muhammad Nabil Danial Mohd Zaini, Student Services Executive and Advisor of Rentak Tari, expressed his admiration for the students’ commitment and determination. 

“Although they did not win, I am incredibly proud of the team’s dedication, hard work, and courage in representing APU at FESCO 2026. This experience taught them many valuable lessons, and I hope it will inspire our students to continue improving and growing together as a team. 

“We also look forward to welcoming more aspiring dancers to join Rentak Tari, enabling us to participate in even more cultural performances and competitions in the future.” 

Students who wished to become part of Rentak Tari or participate in future cultural dance performances were encouraged to contact Mr Muhammad Nabil via Microsoft Teams or email at muhammad.nabil@apu.edu.my.