Datuk Parmjit Singh, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), has been conferred the Special Education Excellence Award 2026: The Malaysian Outstanding Education Icon Leadership Excellence Award by the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific (KSI). 

This prestigious accolade recognises his enduring contributions to Malaysia’s higher education landscape and honours his role as an iconic figure who has shaped the nation’s academic excellence and talent development ecosystem. 

A Recognition Rooted in Impact and Purpose

The conferment reflects not merely personal achievement but the far-reaching impact of Datuk Parmjit’s work in advancing education as a pillar of national development. 

“Your visionary leadership, educational values and the successful track record of your good self deserve recognition as a Leading Education Icon to be celebrated and honoured,” noted the organiser—an acknowledgement that underscores decades of purposeful leadership driven by both conviction and compassion. 

Beyond institutional success, the award highlights a broader narrative: the transformation of education into a strategic driver of Malaysia’s socio-economic progress, particularly in an increasingly digital and knowledge-driven world. 

From Vision to Global Education Enterprise

Datuk Parmjit’s journey began in 1993 with the founding of the Asia Pacific Institute of Information Technology (APIIT), Malaysia’s first technology-focused institute. Built on a forward-looking vision, APIIT broke new ground by aligning education with emerging technological trends at a time when digital transformation was still in its infancy. 

This pioneering institution would later evolve into APU in 2012, achieving full university status and growing into a globally recognised centre of excellence in technology and innovation. Today, APU stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership—producing graduates equipped not only with technical expertise, but also with the adaptability and global outlook required in a rapidly changing world. 

Championing National Higher Education Development

Since assuming the presidency of the Malaysian Association of Private Colleges and Universities (MAPCU) in 2017, Datuk Parmjit has extended his influence beyond institutional leadership to national advocacy. 

In this capacity, he has played a pivotal role in shaping policy dialogue, strengthening industry–academia collaboration, and advancing quality and innovation across Malaysia’s private higher education sector. His leadership continues to support the alignment of education with industry needs, ensuring graduates remain relevant, employable, and future-ready. 

A Platform for Ideas, Leadership and Collaboration

The award was presented on 16 April 2026 at The Majestic Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, in conjunction with the 9th Malaysian Education & Learning Summit 2026. Chaired by Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh, President of KSI, the summit gathered thought leaders, policymakers and educators under the theme “Talent as Economic Infrastructure for Malaysia’s AI and Digital Economy.” 

Organised in collaboration with the National Association of Private Educational Institutions (NAPEI) and MAPCU, the summit underscored the critical role of education in driving Malaysia’s transition towards a high-income, innovation-led economy. 

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including former Chief Justice of Malaysia, Tun Dato’ Seri Zaki Tun Azmi, who delivered the keynote address—further reinforcing the national significance of education as a unifying and transformative force. 

Recognising Leadership that Transforms Lives

This Special Education Excellence Award celebrates individuals who have not only excelled in leadership but have also contributed meaningfully to society. Recipients are selected based on rigorous criteria, including innovation, sustainability, integrity, and a strong commitment to responsible practices and ESG impact. It is a recognition reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing successful organisations while driving transformative change in education. 

A Humble Vision for the Nation’s Future

In receiving the award, Datuk Parmjit expressed his gratitude with characteristic humility, reflecting on the deeper purpose of education in nation building: 

“I am truly honoured by this recognition, but more importantly, it reaffirms a belief I have always held close—education must remain accessible, fair and equal to all who aspire to achieve something meaningful in life. It is through education that we uplift individuals, strengthen communities, and ultimately build a nation that is progressive, inclusive and knowledge-driven.” 

“Our responsibility is not just to educate, but to empower, so that Malaysia can continue its journey towards becoming a high-income, innovation-led society,” he concluded.