On 27 August 2025, the campus of the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) was transformed into a vibrant hub of entrepreneurial activity as 150 pre-university students tested their business instincts by setting up an array of creative booths.

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These students, enrolled in the Introduction to Business module under the Foundation School’s Business and Information Technology stream, had the unique opportunity to experience what it means to start and run a business — from ideation to execution. 

Divided into 21 groups, the young entrepreneurs proudly showcased their potential through 20 innovative business setups. Each project reflected the spirit of the event’s theme, “Malaysia Forward: One Heart, One Nation,” in conjunction with the Malaysian National Day celebration. 

Their ventures ranged from food innovations and craft products to interactive workshops, demonstrating creativity, teamwork, and strong business acumen. 

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The event was organised by Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj, Lecturer and Module Leader of Introduction to Business from APU’s School of Business & Management (SoMM). It provided students with an enriching, hands-on experience that complemented their academic learning. 

“More importantly, they learned that business goes beyond theoretical frameworks; it is about adapting to challenges, solving problems creatively, and making decisions under real-world conditions,” said Ms Cynthia. 

The experience enabled students to apply classroom theories in practical contexts, deepening their understanding of essential concepts such as marketing, finance, customer service, and operations management. By engaging directly with visitors and managing real transactions, they discovered how business decisions play out in dynamic environments. 

Teamwork, Creativity, and Real-World Challenges

Working collaboratively was at the heart of the experience. Students quickly realised that business success depends on collective effort rather than individual achievement. “The project encouraged collaboration and teamwork,” Ms Cynthia explained. “Students learned the value of communication, compromise, and coordination in making their ideas succeed.” 

Preparing for the event also cultivated valuable soft skills. Many participants reflected on how they improved their time management, resilience, and resourcefulness — aligning closely with Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Even when facing challenges such as managing supplies or competition between booths, the students learned to think critically and adapt on the spot. 

The booths became lively centres of interaction where students practised customer engagement and salesmanship. For many, it was their first experience convincing potential “customers” of their products’ value. The positive feedback received from visitors boosted their confidence and provided a rewarding sense of achievement. 

Voices of Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Students spoke enthusiastically about the event’s impact on their personal and professional growth. 

“The event was an eye-opening experience where we applied business theories into practice. I enjoyed working with my team, overcoming challenges, and engaging directly with visitors, which boosted my confidence and communication skills. The experience inspired me to view business as a meaningful path for innovation, impact, and personal growth.”

 — Sharifa Said Baharoon, Foundation Studies (Business, Finance & Social Sciences) 

“Selling drinks gave me practical insight into business operations. I enjoyed interacting with customers, managing sales, and promoting our product effectively. The experience strengthened my teamwork, communication, and confidence in running a business idea.” 

— Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Hamed Mohamed, Foundation Studies 

“Creating and showcasing Malaysian-themed creative games for Malaysia Day was a proud and joyful experience. Watching participants enjoy the games while promoting unity and cultural appreciation was heartening. It strengthened my creativity, teamwork, and passion for celebrating Malaysia’s diversity.” 

— Shaihaan Mohamed Rasheed, Foundation Studies 

From Profit to Purpose

The event concluded on an encouraging note — each group successfully generated net profits ranging from RM100 to RM700. Beyond monetary rewards, students took pride in their growth as budding entrepreneurs. Many international participants embraced the Malaysian National Day theme, infusing their projects with innovative ideas that celebrated cultural diversity and unity. 

Above all, the event nurtured a business mindset among participants. They discovered that entrepreneurship is not merely about profit-making, but about contributing ideas, solutions, and value to society. 

Through this immersive exercise, APU’s Foundation students demonstrated that the next generation of entrepreneurs is not only equipped with knowledge but also with passion, creativity, and a vision for building a better tomorrow — truly reflecting the essence of “Malaysia Forward: One Heart, One Nation.”