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The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently spearheaded the Knowledge Transfer Programme (KTP) 2024 for the Orang Asli community, providing the community with exposure to knowledge and skills in sustainability as well as digital skills and literacy.
Led by Senior Lecturer Ms Harjinder Kaur from APU’s School of Marketing and Management (SoMM) working in collaboration with external advisor Dr Nor Azrul Mohd Zin from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), the initiative involved APU’s staff and students enthusiastically conducting workshops and learning activities in three impactful phases in November and December 2024.
A Comprehensive Initiative for Empowerment
This collaborative project involved notable partners, including the Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers (AMER), Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli (JAKOA) Selangor, and Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah (PPD) Hulu Selangor, with the support of the Iltizam by Education initiative under Ekuiti Nasional Berhad (EKUINAS).
Through workshops, cultural activities, and exposure to science and technology, the programme enriched the lives of 36 Orang Asli children while providing APU students with opportunities for personal growth and skill development.
The KTP 2024 was executed in three main phases:
Phase 1: Cultural Exchange and Sustainability Workshop (27th November 2024)
Held at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tun Abdul Razak in Kuala Kubu Bharu, this phase focused on sustainability through a hands-on DIY soap-making session. Guided by APU students, the Orang Asli children learned the basics of creating eco-friendly soap using natural ingredients. The workshop also introduced concepts of hygiene, environmental responsibility, and the importance of reducing chemical use in everyday products.
Phase 2: Communication and Digital Literacy Workshop (28th November 2024)
Also hosted at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tun Abdul Razak, this workshop emphasised essential digital literacy skills. APU students taught the children how to create digital presentations, using tools like Slidesgo to explore themes such as “Merdeka Day”. The interactive session stimulated creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills while equipping the children with valuable technological competencies.
Phase 3: Empowering Digital Education and STEM Exploration (12th December 2024)
The final phase brought the children to APU’s Computer Lab and included a visit to Petrosains KLCC. APU students conducted workshops that reinforced digital skills, such as word processing and presentation design. The visit to Petrosains offered hands-on experiences with scientific exhibits, sparking curiosity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields often underrepresented in rural communities.
Cultural Exchange and Unity
The programme also featured a Cultural Crossroads Programme, which fostered unity through interactive cultural activities. Students from various schools showcased traditional performances, such as Malay dances, Indian classical dances, and Chinese yoyo art. A visit to the Suara Rimba Temuan Gallery allowed participants to immerse themselves in the lifestyle and traditions of the Temuan Orang Asli, building empathy and cultural awareness.
Transformative Impact on APU Students
According to the Head of the School of Marketing and Management (SoMM), Associate Professor Dr Devinder Kaur, this programme plays a crucial role in equipping APU students with the human skills necessary to become well-rounded individuals, highly sought after in today’s society.
For the participating APU students—Siow Jay Yang, Jez Wong Kechien, Lim Sy Hao, Chan Xin Ping, Chan Weng Fong, Bryan Chin Yu Han, Yap Wai Yan, Mandy Wong Siew Yi, and Jackson Tiong Khek Ying, all pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management with a specialism in Digital Marketing; as well as Stefania Scarpino, a Master’s student in Global Marketing Management—the programme offered unparalleled opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world context. Their involvement led to significant personal and professional growth, including:
- Enhanced Leadership and Teaching Skills: Facilitating workshops and mentoring children improved their communication, patience, and ability to translate technical concepts into relatable ideas.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Working closely with the Orang Asli community provided deep insights into cultural diversity, fostering empathy and a global mindset.
- Event Management Expertise: Coordinating multiple activities sharpened their organisational and problem-solving abilities.
- Community Engagement: By addressing the needs of underserved communities, students gained a practical understanding of societal challenges and developed a commitment to making a positive impact.
These experiences not only enriched their academic portfolios but also prepared them for future challenges by instilling a sense of responsibility and purpose.
Driving Positive Change
The KTP 2024 demonstrated APU’s commitment to sustainability, education, and inclusivity. The programme aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), by addressing critical issues such as digital literacy, STEM education, and cultural preservation.
“This initiative underscores the transformative power of education. It not only benefits the Orang Asli children but also nurtures APU students as socially conscious leaders,” said Ms Harjinder Kaur. “The experience has been profoundly rewarding for everyone involved.”
A Vision for the Future
By combining education, community engagement, and cultural exchange, the Knowledge Transfer Programme (KTP) 2024 set a benchmark for impactful outreach initiatives.
"Through initiatives like KTP 2024, we aim to unlock opportunities for Orang Asli children to realise their aspirations. By bridging knowledge gaps and fostering essential skills, we are nurturing future leaders who will undoubtedly contribute to the progress and unity of our nation," commented Professor Ts Dr Murali Raman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of APU.
His view was echoed by Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan, Vice-Chancellor of APU, who stated, "Our Knowledge Transfer Programme is a perfect example of how APU bridges education with community impact. It reinforces our mission to develop well-rounded graduates who can apply their knowledge to create sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous communities. This programme reflects our unwavering commitment to contributing meaningfully to societal progress."
As APU looks ahead, such programmes reinforce its role as a hub for innovation and inclusivity, championing the belief that education is the key to building a better future for all. The success of KTP 2024 highlights the university’s ongoing commitment to bridging gaps, fostering collaboration, and driving positive change through meaningful initiatives.