THE digital economy is driving global transformation by reshaping industries, redefining work and creating opportunities for those with the right skills.

Preparing for the future job market is essential as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) revolutionise how we work and create.

Malaysia is advancing into Phase Two of its Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint (MyDIGITAL), having surpassed its initial RM70bil digital investment target within a year. Malaysia achieved US$16.9bil (RM74.8bil) in approved digital investments, driven by global tech giants such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google and Microsoft.

Driving tech-forward education

Digital Tech education is now vital for navigating this digital whirlwind and Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) is leading the charge with industry-focused programmes to meet the demands of the digital era.

“As one of Malaysia’s Premier Digital Tech Institutions, APU is closely aligned with national priorities, offering a curriculum that reflects the demands of today’s tech ecosystem,” explained APU’sacademic development and strategy deputy vice-chancellor Prof Dr Murali Raman.

In today’s fast-evolving digital economy, Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) graduates need more than just a qualification — they need future-ready skills and resilient career paths.

APU provides a solid foundation aligned with Malaysia’s national goals, including MyDIGITAL and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Policy.

Using SPM, ‘O’ Level or equivalent qualifications, students can progress to a wide range of internationally recognised degrees at APU in Malaysia via the APU Foundation Programme.

Filling the digital skills gap

APU’s information technology (IT) programmes prepare students for high-demand sectors such as cyber security, AI, cloud engineering, IoT, data analytics and digital forensics.

As a notable example, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised the urgent need for cyber security experts to safeguard national digital infrastructure.

Malaysia’s digital content sector, employing over 10,000 professionals across more than 300 studios, contributes significantly to the gross domestic product. APU is well-placed to meet the growing demand in this field with courses in Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality (VR/AR), Interactive Media, Game Development, Animation and Visual Effects, supported by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) initiatives.

Building global talent with integrated digital tech skills

Globally, there is a rapidly growing demand for professionals across all subject domain areas who also possess strong digital tech skills.

In this regard, APU’s Accounting and Finance programmes — including Forensic Accounting, AccTech and Investment Analytics — strongly integrate financial knowledge with digital skills.

Its specialised programmes in Business Management, Business Analytics, E-Business, Digital Leadership and Digital Marketing nurture talent to drive technology and innovation in both small and medium-sized enterprises and global corporations.

As the tourism and aviation sectors recover, APU prepares students for global careers through programmes in Tourism Management, Hospitality Innovation and Aviation Management.

Socially conscious, tech-savvy graduates

In a world shaped by misinformation and global shifts, APU’s Media and Communication Studies and International Relations programmes produce critical thinkers for roles in media, diplomacy and non-profits.

The Cyber Security Talent Zone (CSTZ) is one of the most advanced state-of-the-art facilities at APU.

With a growing global focus on mental health, APU’s Psychology programme combines human insight with tech via specialisations like Cyberpsychology. The intersection between digital tech and Psychology is driving the demand for Psychology practitioners with a keen understanding of how technology may be used as a key enabler for their work.

To support national infrastructure, energy and automation needs, APU offers top-tier programmes in Electrical and Electronic, Mechatronic, Mechanical, Computer and Petroleum Engineering.

As urban and smart city development accelerates, APU’s Industrial Design and Architecture programmes train students to create sustainable, culturally aware spaces – again integrated with technology as a key enabler.

APU’s purpose-built campus with an ultra-modern design is strategically located at MRANTI Park Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur.

Ready for the world

Having the right knowledge and skills leads to better career opportunities, higher earnings and greater confidence.

“Future-proofing one’s career is no longer optional — it is essential,” said Prof Murali.

He added, “Resilient knowledge and capabilities will remain vital and sought after in the years ahead.”

According to the Higher Education Ministry’s Graduate Tracer Study, APU graduates are 100% employable – a clear reflection of APU’s commitment to developing globally competent professionals.

At the same time, through its partnership with De Montfort University (DMU), UK, students receive dual awards — separate degree certificates and transcripts from both APU and DMU - enhancing their global employability.

To learn more about APU and its programmes, visit https://www.apu.edu.my/.

This article is provided by Asia Pacific University (APU).

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.

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