Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) marked a proud achievement at Varsity Combat Sports (VCS) 2025 when Computer Science student Sivasankari Balasubramaniam won a bronze medal in the Karate Individual Kumite Senior Female -68kg category.

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) made its mark at the Varsity Combat Sports (VCS) 2025, with student athlete Sivasankari Balasubramaniam securing a bronze medal in the Karate Individual Kumite Senior Female-68kg category. 

APU sent two student athletes to compete in the prestigious national championship, which was organised by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) in collaboration with Majlis Sukan Politeknik Malaysia (MSP). 

Held from 13 to 16 November 2025, VCS 2025 brought together university athletes from across Malaysia to compete in taekwondo, silat, and karate. 

The championship saw strong participation, with approximately 838 athletes from 46 contingents and institutions vying for honours across the three martial arts disciplines. 

APU was represented by Sivasankari Balasubramaniam in Karate and Chew Chyi Meng in Taekwondo, with competitions taking place at Dewan Za'ba and Dewan Muadzam Shah, Putrajaya. 

The Computer Science student, Sivasankari delivered a commendable performance in the Karate event, earning a bronze medal in her category. 

Although it was her first time competing in a varsity-level championship, she credited her success to experience gained from previous competitions and consistent training.

“I had previously taken part in several competitions under the same kumite category, which helped me build experience and confidence,” she said.

“I achieved the bronze medal through disciplined and consistent training. My preparation included regular technical drills, sparring sessions, physical conditioning, and mental preparation.”

Reflecting on the competition, Sivasankari shared that the experience taught her valuable lessons beyond the mat.

“I learned the importance of staying calm under pressure, making quick decisions during matches, and maintaining sportsmanship regardless of the outcome,” she added.

“I truly enjoyed the competition. It was an exciting and meaningful experience to compete at varsity level and test my skills against strong opponents.”

She also highlighted how the experience complemented her academic journey, helping her develop discipline, time management, and resilience, skills that were equally vital in her Computer Science studies. 

The competition met her expectations and contributed positively to both her personal and academic growth.

“I am keen to participate in the same and other competitions in the near future. I see this as an opportunity to continue improving my skills and gaining more competitive experience,” she said.

Meanwhile, APU’s Taekwondo representative Chew Chyi Meng also put up a strong performance but was unfortunately eliminated early after facing a current national Taekwondo athlete.

Mr Ahmad Mohammad, Assistant Manager of Sports Development & Student Affairs at APU, explained that only one athlete per sport was sent due to examination schedules.

“International student athletes were also not allowed to participate, as this competition served as part of the selection process for the Malaysian team for the ASEAN University Games (AUG) next year, which Malaysia will be hosting,” he said.

“Moving forward, we will continue to focus on training and preparation for SUKIPT 2026.”