As President of Sustainable Future Fusion (SFF@APU), I, Khoo Lay Yang 邱励扬, had the honour of representing Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) at the World Cultural Diversity Day for Dialogue and Development Forum 2025, held at Lodge Paradize, Kuala Lumpur. This event, centered around the theme “Harmony in Diversity, Strength in Dialogue: Culture as a Bridge to Sustainable Development,” was a profound experience that highlighted Malaysia’s rich cultural fabric and the importance of intercultural dialogue in sustainable development.

Embracing Collaboration and Dialogue

I was invited by Mr. Khoo Hock Aun and Ms. Mayli Lim (Founder of Camerata Dell’Arte and Social Chair of KLTESA), together with my respected advisor Ms. Cynthia Mala Paul, a lecturer at APU and fellow SFF@APU leader. The forum marks a continuation of our collaboration with KLTESA, initiated under our 2024 Memorandum of Understanding — aimed at nurturing tourism talent and promoting cultural sustainability.

Three Panels, One Message: Culture Unites and Inspires


The forum featured three insightful panels, all expertly moderated by Ms. Cynthia Mala Paul, highlighting the role of culture in unity, heritage, and economic development.

Panel 1: Dialogue in a Fragmented World – How Cultural Diversity Can Bridge Divides


Datuk Seri Mirza Mohd Taiyab Beg — Advisor, KLTESA & Kuala Lumpur Tourism Executive Association (KLTEA)

Mr. Khoo Kay Ping — Partner, Zaid Ibrahim & Co., Author of Demi Rakyat

Dato’ Zahim Albakri — Council Member, Badan Warisan Malaysia

Ms. Lavinya Kalai Chelvan — Office of External Affairs, Bahá’í Community of Malaysia

Panel 2: From Kampung to Digital – Preserving and Innovating Malaysia’s Cultural Heritage


Puan Hana Halim — Wellnesspreneur, Past President, AMSPA

Mr. Sivabalan Sothinathan — Director, UMA Publications Sdn Bhd & Vice President, MABOPA

Mr. Wong Tuck Cheong — Malaysian Public Library Research & Development Centre

Mr. Chacko Vadaketh — Malaysian Actor & Board Member, FINAS

Panel 3: Culture as Capital – Driving Sustainable Development through Malaysia’s Creative Economy


Mr. Uzaidi Udanis — Co-founder, OTA Academy & Past President, MITA

Mr. Stephen Ng — Marketing & Media Consultant, Market Eagles Communications

Dato’ Kamil Othman — Advisor, FINAS & Managing Director, Creative Industry Consultants

My Reflections on the Forum

Participating in this forum was not just a representation of APU, but also a deeply personal moment of learning and leadership. I shared ideas, absorbed insights, and connected with national and cultural leaders — all of whom are shaping the future of Malaysia through cultural sustainability and creativity.

As I reflect on these discussions, I am reminded of how culture is not only our identity but also a bridge that brings people together in times of division. This event reinforced my commitment to fostering intercultural dialogue and preserving our shared heritage through innovation and education.

I am especially excited about World Diversity Day 2025, which I am proudly organizing, and which will be hosted by APU on May 24. This event offers another amazing opportunity for all of us to come together to celebrate our multiculturalism and build a more harmonious and united Malaysia.

With gratitude to all the organizers, panelists, and collaborators. Let’s continue celebrating our diversity — not just in words, but in action.