Recently, the School of Business (SoB) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur Tourism, Entrepreneurs, and Stakeholders Association (KLTESA), brought entrepreneurship learning beyond the classroom through Eco Venture; an interactive poster showcase.

Coordinated by Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj (Lecturer, SoB at APU), the showcase carried the theme “Transforming Tourism, Protecting Tomorrow;” encouraging students from various academic disciplines to explore challenges affecting tourism and the natural environment through entrepreneurial ideas and solutions, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4 and 17 (SDG 4 and SDG 17).

Bringing Ideas to Life

During the showcase, students had the opportunity to put their entrepreneurial thinking into practice by developing and presenting their own ideas through 36 group posters.

They explained the concepts behind their projects, responded to questions, and engaged in discussions about the potential of their proposed solutions.

The experience encouraged students to think critically about their ideas, while considering factors such as practicality, audience needs, and how their concepts could be further developed.

It also provided a platform for students to build confidence in communicating their ideas, work collaboratively with their team members, and learn from the perspectives shared by others throughout the showcase.

Connecting Students with Industry Experience

The showcase also featured the participation of eight entrepreneurs from different professional and industry backgrounds, who evaluated the students’ projects and shared feedback based on their experiences.

Their involvement built on the continued partnership between APU and KLTESA, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2024 to foster tourism talent and cultural initiatives.

Rather than limiting industry engagement to classroom talks, the showcase created an opportunity for students to present their ideas directly to entrepreneurs, respond to questions, and receive perspectives from outside the academic setting.

The interaction encouraged students to consider not only the creativity of their ideas, but also how clearly they could communicate their proposed solutions and demonstrate their relevance and practicality.

Student Perspectives

1. Rachael Low Zhi Qing: “Presenting our ideas and engaging with others was a fun experience that helped me improve my presentation skills and feel less nervous when communicating my ideas.”
2. Ooi Wei Yee: “I learned that pitching an idea is not just about presenting information, but also about communicating clearly and confidently in a way that captures interest in the proposed solution.”
3. Vindiya: “The showcase gave me a great opportunity to strengthen my presentation and teamwork skills, while also building my confidence in sharing ideas and engaging with others.”
4. Huraima Hassan: “Having the opportunity to present directly to entrepreneurs was a valuable experience, as their questions and feedback helped us better understand our idea and areas that could be improved.”
    

Empowering Students through Experience

Through Eco Venture, students gained practical experience in developing, presenting, and refining entrepreneurial ideas, while engaging with perspectives beyond the classroom. 

The showcase also demonstrated the value of connecting academic learning with industry interaction; giving students opportunities to build confidence, communicate their ideas, and respond to feedback.

By creating a space for students to turn their ideas into proposed solutions, the showcase supported the development of adaptable and confident learners who can approach real-world challenges with an entrepreneurial mindset.