In its ongoing effort to bridge academic theory with real-world industry practice, the School of Accounting and Finance (SoAF) at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) successfully hosted an industry talk on Payment Tokenisation on 25 April 2025.

This initiative reflects APU’s steadfast commitment to equipping students with the skills and knowledge essential for success in the modern digital economy.

The talk was graced by representatives from NTT Data, formerly known as iPay88, one of Malaysia’s largest and most trusted payment gateway providers. The session offered students invaluable exposure to current trends and technological advancements shaping the FinTech landscape.

Distinguished Alumni Returns to Inspire

The event, jointly organised by Senior Lecturers Dr Ng Hui Chen and Dr Muhammad Umar Islam, featured Mr Karanveer Singh, Manager of the Business Project Management Office at NTT Data and a proud alumnus of APU. 

Addressing an audience of 50 FinTech students, Mr Karanveer delivered an engaging and informative presentation that brought academic theories to life through practical applications.

Drawing from his own experience in the field, Mr Karanveer elaborated on the concept of payment tokenisation, a cornerstone of digital transaction security. He explained how this technology replaces sensitive card details with unique tokens, thus mitigating the risks of data breaches and fraud during online transactions.

Real-World Applications and Technical Insights

Through relatable real-world examples and easy-to-understand technical illustrations, Mr Karanveer demonstrated how tokenisation is implemented by major payment platforms, including those under NTT Data’s umbrella. 

His insights not only clarified complex concepts but also provided students with a clear understanding of how technology supports secure digital commerce and enhances consumer trust.

The session proved to be an eye-opening experience for many students, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application in an industry setting.

Career Pathways in FinTech: Opportunities at NTT Data

Complementing the technical discussion, Mr Peter Ewen Edison, HR Manager at NTT Data, took the stage to discuss internship and career opportunities within the organisation. 

Emphasising the importance of early industry exposure, Mr Peter encouraged students to explore internship placements as a strategic step towards securing future employment in the FinTech sector.

He outlined the application process, shared tips for crafting a compelling profile, and highlighted key attributes the company looks for in potential candidates. His presentation sparked enthusiastic interaction, with students raising thoughtful questions about recruitment and workplace expectations.

Interactive Learning and Student Engagement

Adding a fun and interactive dimension to the event, NTT Data prepared a live quiz centred on the topic of payment tokenisation. Designed to reinforce the knowledge shared during the session, the quiz allowed students to test their understanding in real time while fostering healthy competition.

The top three scorers were rewarded with special gifts, acknowledging their engagement and grasp of the subject matter. This activity added an energetic close to the formal portion of the talk and kept spirits high throughout.

Networking for Future Success

The event concluded with an informal networking session, allowing students to engage directly with the speakers. These one-on-one conversations enabled participants to delve deeper into the topics discussed and gain personalised insights into careers in digital payment technologies.

This successful industry talk once again underscored APU’s commitment to academic excellence and career-readiness. By offering students opportunities to connect with professionals and learn from real-world experiences, SoAF continues to ensure that its graduates are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the digital economy.