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Recently, the School of Psychology (SoP) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), in collaboration with Universitas Ciputra, conducted an enriching academic field trip to PsiTra Klinik Psikologi & Konsultasi (PKPK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).

Led by Mr Jaff Choong Gian Yong (Lecturer, SoP at APU) and Ms Raihan Munira Moh Sani (Lecturer, SoP at APU), the trip united psychology students from both universities with a focused aim of enhancing their insight into evidence-based psychological practice and the integration of technology in therapy.

This field trip was one of three joint initiatives carried out by both universities as part of the Universitas Ciputra X APU International Competition 2025:

1. Strengthening Global Connections through Psychology and Technology. (This article can also be read on our website via HERE.
2. APU Psychology Students Championing Refugee Well-Being. (This article can also be read on our website via HERE.
    

Understanding Psychology in real Settings

The trip began where students were welcomed by Prof Dr Mohamad Rahim Kamaluddin, Head of Centre at PKPK UKM, and Dr Abdul Rahman Ahmad Badayai, Clinic Coordinator at PKPK UKM.

They guided students through the centre’s diverse professional services and therapeutic approaches, providing insights into how each method supports mental health and practical psychological care.

Following that, students were taken on a tour of the centre, where they explored key facilities and therapeutic tools, including:

1. Play Therapy Room
2. Counselling and Consultation Room
3. Psychological Testing and Assessment Facility
4. Metaphoric Card and Art Therapy Room
5. Virtual reality (VR) system
    

Each space highlighted how modern tools, technological innovations, and creative modalities are integrated into therapeutic work to support mental health and holistic well-being.

This exposure allowed students to see how psychological theory, digital advancements, and human-centred care intersect to shape contemporary practice. 

Bridging Knowledge across Borders

Beyond the technical and clinical insights, the field trip served as a meaningful platform for cross-cultural academic exchange between Malaysia and Indonesia.

Students from both universities participated in reflective conversations, discussions on therapeutic methodology, and comparisons of professional practice across different cultural and institutional contexts.

These interactions deepened their understanding of psychology as a global discipline rooted in empathy, adaptability, and innovation.

Strengthening collaboration through shared learning

Ms Vinorra Shaker (Head, SoP at APU) reflected that the collaborative field trip to PKPK UKM provided students with a valuable opportunity to move beyond theory and witness the real-world application of psychological services.

She highlighted that such practical, cross-cultural experiences are crucial in preparing students to become innovative, compassionate, and future proof professionals.

Furthermore, Dr Livia Yuliawati (Dean, SoP at Universitas Ciputra) shared that the field trip allowed students to observe how humans and technology can work together to foster empathy, and how digital psychology can enhance psychological care and human connection.

She added that this collaboration, held in conjunction with the Universitas Ciputra X APU International Competition 2025, beautifully exemplifies the universities’ commitment to fostering meaningful learning experiences and empowering students to excel in a dynamic and interconnected world.