This event proudly championed several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
The event commenced with a spirited lion dance performance by the APU Lion Dance Club, setting a lively tone as the troupe greeted Datuk Seri Mirza Mohd Taiyab Beg, Advisor of KLTESA and Kuala Lumpur Tourism Executive Association. Distinguished guests in attendance included Ms. Cynthia Mala Paul (Advisor of APU SFF and Lecturer from SOB), Khoo Lay Yang (President of APU SFF), and Mr. Kenneth Oh (President of KLTESA, CEO of Asia Travel Cafe Tourism Group), whom the organising committee warmly welcomed.
Throughout the day, we have over hundreds of attendees immersed themselves in a rich tapestry of multicultural performances, traditional exhibits, fashion showcases, tourism booths, cultural food booths, awareness booths, and international cuisine stalls. The celebration featured diverse talents from both local and international students, as well as external guest artists.
Notable performances included:
• Yap Ray Hang (Malaysia), who captivated the audience with renditions of 女孩 and 瞬.
• Bakhodirov Samirkhon Sardor Ugli (Uzbekistan) delivered an emotional performance of the Russian song Mama, earning widespread applause.
• Sudipta Sikder performed two acoustic songs.
• The Mauritian student community brought energy to the stage with their traditional island dance.
• Nguyen le Huong Gian (Vietnam) showcased The Pink Empress of Vietnam during the fashion parade.
• Dayana Kanat showcased Kazakhstan's traditional performances during the fashion parade.
• Mutende Mwitwa (Zambia) engaged the crowd with a dynamic traditional Zambian dance.
• The Syrian Community showcased their traditional dance during the performance.
• Renowned guest guitarist Autilig Cheong (Malaysia) performed four classic acoustic and electric guitar numbers, including Jacquelin Kara, Would You Tell Her by Teddy Robin, and Baby It's You.
• Another distinguished guest, Look Kai Yang (Malaysia), a classical cellist, performed three refined classical pieces with keyboard accompaniment, leaving the audience in awe.
The event also hosted an international cultural exhibition featuring booths from:
1. Syria – 1st place
2. Zambia Community – 2nd place
3. ICYs Community – 3rd place
Costume parade highlights included:
1. Mauritius community – 1st place
2. Nguyen le Huong Gian (Vietnam) – 2nd place
3. Kazakhstan – 3rd place
Performance competition winners were:
1. Mutende Mwitwa (Zambia) – 1st place
2. Mauritius community – 2nd place
3. Bakhodirov Samirkhon Sardor Ugli (Samir) – 3rd place
Khoo Lay Yang, President of Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF)and Head of the Organizing Committee, emphasized that:
“Malaysia is a driver’s country — a meeting point of diverse ethnicities, languages, and cultures. At APU, through Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF), we believe in cultivating global citizenship among our students by embracing and learning from each other’s uniqueness. World Diversity Day is more than just a festival; it’s a platform to unify, empower, and celebrate humanity.”
The event was made possible through the tireless efforts of a passionate and dedicated team:
• Ms. Cynthia Mala Paul – Advisor of Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF), Lecturer at School of Business and Management, and Head Event Organiser
• Khoo Lay Yang – President of Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF), Head Event Organizer & Coordinator and Event Planner
• Khoo Lay Bin – Secretary of Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF)
• Chai Zhe He – Vice Secretary of Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF)
• Lim Ling – Event & Logistic Operation (ELO) Department Team Leader of Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF)
• Mr. Khoo Hock Aun – Main Event Organizer and Sponsor Representative from Advisor Camerata dell ‘Arte of Kuala Lumpur, and Strategic Partnerships Exco Member from KLTESA.
• Ms. Mayli Li – Founder of Camerata dell'Arte, Social Development Chair and Exco Member of KLTESA, and Key Sponsor.
• Mr. Kenneth Oh – President of KLTESA.
• Mr. Johnny Leong – Secretary of KLTESA.
In reflecting on the success of the event, Mr. Khoo Hock Aun expressed his gratitude:
“We are proud to be part of a platform that truly represents what Kuala Lumpur stands for — unity through diversity. This event is a testament to the power of youth-driven cultural diplomacy.”
Ms. Mayli Li echoed the sentiment:
“By supporting young talents and intercultural understanding, we are shaping a future that celebrates inclusion and creativity.”
Mr. Kenneth Oh added:
“KLTESA is honoured to support such vibrant student-led initiatives. We remain committed to promoting cultural tourism and global harmony through future collaborations with APU SFF.”
World Diversity Day 2025 at Asia Pacific University (APU), organised by the APU Sustainable Future Fusion (SFF) Club, served as a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength that emerge when diverse cultures come together in an atmosphere of mutual respect, openness, and curiosity. Through vibrant showcases of tradition, language, art, and dialogue, the event fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of global perspectives, reinforcing the values of inclusivity, unity, and empathy among participants. More than just a cultural celebration, the event underscored the university’s commitment to advancing global citizenship and sustainable development. In doing so, it strongly aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 4 by promoting quality education and intercultural learning; SDG 9 by encouraging innovation through creative cultural expressions; SDG 16 by advocating for peace, justice, and inclusive societies; and SDG 17 by strengthening partnerships among communities, institutions, and individuals. As we reflect on the success of this event, it is clear that such initiatives play a vital role in shaping a more harmonious, resilient, and interconnected world.
