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Empowering Community Leaders of the Future
APU Students Shine as Champions of Community and Creativity
The Tirai Theatre Show 2025, a vibrant public showcase of performing arts by underprivileged children and youth from Pusat Kreatif Kanak-kanak Tuanku Bainun’s sponsored programme, was further elevated by the dedicated involvement of students from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU).
Ms Cynthia Paul (left), lecturer at APU’s School of Business (SoB) and advisor of SFF@APU, alongside Pn Zainuriah Abdul Rahman (second from right) from Souk Kita, a partner for Tirai 2025, joins APU student volunteers in celebrating their enriching participation in the Tirai Theatre Show 2025.
Their commitment played a key role in ensuring the event’s success, demonstrating APU’s mission to nurture socially responsible and well-rounded individuals.
Held on 11th January 2025, the event attracted an enthusiastic crowd eager to celebrate artistic expression, cultural appreciation, and community engagement. The venue, situated in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, is a creative centre offering arts programmes for children aged 8 to 17, with a special focus on those with special needs, underprivileged backgrounds, or limited access to education.
APU Students as the Backbone of the Event
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| APU student volunteers assisted with makeup, hairstyling, and outfit changes, enhancing the performers' stage presence and bringing the show to life. | |
Embodying the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education, 32 passionate student volunteers from Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF@APU) worked tirelessly for over 12 hours to ensure the event ran seamlessly.
Under the guidance of Ms Cynthia Paul, lecturer at APU’s School of Business (SoB) and advisor of SFF@APU, these students took on crucial backstage roles, proving indispensable in the execution of the theatre show.
From setting up the stage to managing technical aspects such as lighting and sound, the volunteers ensured a smooth and immersive theatrical experience. They also assisted with makeup, hairstyling, and outfit changes, enhancing the performers' stage presence and bringing the show to life.
Beyond the theatre, the event featured nearly 50 interactive booths, transforming the venue into a cultural and entertainment hub. APU student volunteers actively supported booth coordination, vendor assistance, and visitor engagement, further strengthening their hands-on learning experience.
A Fusion of Culture, Creativity, and Community
Beyond the theatre, the event featured nearly 50 interactive booths, where APU student volunteers actively supported booth coordination, vendor assistance, and visitor engagement.
The event offers a vibrant mix of attractions, including diverse food and beverage stalls featuring local and international delicacies, fostering community connections over shared meals.
Handmade accessories and handicrafts celebrate creativity with unique jewellery and souvenirs.
A petting zoo delights families and children with close-up animal encounters, while caricature artists and game booths add an interactive and entertaining touch.
Engaging workshops for all ages provide hands-on learning experiences, ensuring a fun and educational atmosphere for everyone.
The theatre show was officiated by Pusat Kreatif Kanak-kanak Tuanku Bainun’s members of Board of Directors: YTM Raja Dato' Seri Eleena binti Sultan Azlan Shah, YBhg Dato' Wan Yaacob bin Wan Salaidin, YTM Raja Dato' Seri Yong Sofia binti Sultan Azlan Shah; Advisor YTM Dato' Seri Noraini Jane Ariffin; and Chairman YTM Raja Dato’ Seri Azureen binti Sultan Azlan Shah, underscoring the significance of the initiative.
Building Future Changemakers at APU
The Tirai Theatre Show equips students with leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility, preparing them to become compassionate and impactful members of society.
APU remains steadfast in its mission to provide students with meaningful real-world experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Events like the Tirai Theatre Show equip students with leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility, preparing them to be compassionate and impactful members of society.
Reflecting on the experience, Ziyad Alaa Mohamed Mahmoud, a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science (Cyber Security) student, shared: “The event was a meaningful opportunity to give back to the younger generation by creating a joyful and engaging space for them to learn, play, and interact. Seeing their smiles made the effort truly rewarding and reinforced the importance of teamwork, kindness, and community spirit.”
Gehad Sherif Mahmoud Abdelrazik, a BSc (Hons) in Computer Science with a specialism in Data Analytics student, added: “Volunteering at this event was incredibly fulfilling. I had the chance to assist in different ways and witness the students' remarkable performances. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute, and I would love to participate again.”
Mi Yoonadi Mon, a Diploma in Information and Communications Technology student, expressed: “Working at the game booth was a special experience. I got to help kids from all different backgrounds have fun and enjoy themselves.”
A Lasting Impact
Concluding the event, Ms Cynthia Paul remarked: “Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF)@APU students exemplified the values of compassion, leadership, and teamwork throughout this event. Their dedication reflects APU’s commitment to shaping future leaders who not only excel academically but also contribute meaningfully to society. I am immensely proud of their efforts and the positive impact they have created.”
APU takes immense pride in the efforts of its student volunteers and looks forward to fostering more collaborations that enrich students' educational journeys while making a lasting difference in the community.