PETALING JAYA: Students from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) launched a community-led programme on promoting mental wellbeing, physical fitness and awareness on animal welfare and sustainability.

The student-led programme called APU Smile Fest: Euphoria Expedition is being held for three days from yesterday until tomorrow at APU’s campus at Technology Park Malaysia, Bukit Jalil.

The event was graced by Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin.

The festival, which is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) on good health and wellbeing, featured a variety of activities including an on-campus bazaar with interactive booths during the first two days.

The final day will end with a night run to promote physical exercise and mental health awareness.

A highlight of the festival is its advocacy for animal welfare and sustainability, which are strongly supported by APU.

APU students have volunteered with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Selangor, of which Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin is the Royal Patron.

During yesterday’s event, a mock cheque for RM30,000 was presented by APU chief executive officer Datuk Parmjit Singh to SPCA Selangor chairman Christine Chin in support of SPCA and other related initiatives.

About 700 APU students have volunteered at SPCA Selangor since 2016, engaging in animal care, cleaning and public outreach. Over the years, they have also raised and donated RM50,000 to support the shelter.

APU’s student community has also spearheaded various charitable initiatives over the past decade, such as collaborations with the Malaysian Conservation Alliance for Tigers (Mycat) and Greenpeace Malaysia.

These efforts have focused on environmental conservation, disaster relief and outreach to underprivileged communities.

Parmjit expressed his gratitude to Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin for gracing the programme.

“At APU, we believe in creating impactful experiences that go beyond academics.

“Our students’ active involvement in initiatives like APU Smile Fest exemplifies their commitment to not only personal growth but also making meaningful contributions to society,” he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/04/students-launch-programme-for-health-animal-welfare