Raif Izudin Rasulluddin, a second-year Data Analytics student at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), became the first APU student on the National Student Consultative Council (MPPK), gaining leadership, communication and teamwork experience as an Executive of Current Issues and International Relations.

Breaking new ground from campus to council, Raif Izudin Rasulluddin, a second-year Data Analytics student at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), was proudly selected to join the National Student Consultative Council (MPPK), marking a historic first for the university.

“This was my first time representing APU at MPPK as Executive of Current Issues and International Relations,” he shared, adding that it was “An honour to be the first student from APU to do so.”

This year, the newly appointed MPPK council comprised 30 members — 20 students from Public Higher Education Institutions (IPTA), four from Government-Linked Universities (GLU), and six from Private Higher Education Institutions (IPTS).

A key highlight is that APU has broken tradition by having a representative alongside institutions such as Universiti Islam Selangor (UIS), University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), University of Nottingham (Malaysia Campus), Management and Science University (MSU), and National Heart Institute (IJN). 

Raif, the eldest of two siblings, reflected on the experience he gained as an APU Student Representative Council (SRC) committee member, explaining how his participation had fostered both personal and professional growth.

“I learned to represent student voices effectively, collaborate with diverse teams, and handle responsibilities with accountability and professionalism,” he said.

“It exposed me to real-world decision-making and networking, helping me become more confident, disciplined, and proactive in contributing positively to my community.”

He described the selection process as highly competitive, with many outstanding candidates vying for limited spots. 

“Standing out among 29 other candidates was challenging. The two-day briefing involved back-to-back tasks that tested our debating, presentation and communication skills. 

“From this experience, I learned the importance of preparation, confidence and authenticity.”

Raif added that the process had strengthened his ability to present ideas clearly, think critically under pressure, and reflect on his own strengths and weaknesses. 

“It taught me to stay calm in competitive situations, build resilience, and handle challenges professionally.”

He concluded that the selection process enriched his personal growth and leadership skills, while also enhancing essential academic skills such as communication, critical thinking and confidence in presenting ideas. 

“It pushed me out of my comfort zone, gave me practical perspectives beyond theory, and clarified what it truly means to take on leadership responsibilities.”