APU’s SoGHT Hosts Industry Experts for Insightful Discussions on “Tourism and Peace”

The School of Global Hospitality and Tourism (SoGHT) at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) celebrated World Tourism Day on 27 September 2024 with a compelling agenda that underscored the profound role tourism plays in shaping social, cultural, political, and economic values worldwide.

In honour of this global celebration, SoGHT welcomed two distinguished industry professionals – Adjunct Professor Reginald T. Pereira, President and CEO of Aariana Hospitality International, Malaysia, and Ms Kitty Lee, Main Representative of the International Management Institute (IMI) Switzerland in Malaysia. Both speakers addressed this year’s theme, “Tourism and Peace”, offering insightful perspectives on sustainable tourism and its potential to foster global harmony.

The event, which began with opening remarks by Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan, Vice-Chancellor of APU, and Professor Dr Kashif Hussain, Head of SoGHT, provided a valuable platform for students, faculty, and the wider community to engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of responsible tourism. 

In his presentation, Adjunct Professor Reginald T. Pereira highlighted the vital role tourism plays in economic peacebuilding. "Tourism is more than just a leisure activity; it is a tool for creating jobs, uplifting communities, and rebuilding economies. Especially in times of crisis, the tourism industry becomes a beacon of hope," he stated, drawing on his extensive experience in revitalising the sector during the global pandemic. 

Ms Kitty Lee shared equally compelling insights. As a representative of IMI, Switzerland, an institution ranked #17 globally for hospitality studies by the QS World University Rankings, she highlighted IMI’s commitment to academic excellence and its unique position in the hospitality industry. 

"IMI is proud to collaborate with APU in nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals. Our students benefit from a global perspective and practical experience, both of which are crucial in today’s interconnected world," Ms Lee remarked.

This event also marked the strengthening of academic ties between APU and IMI Switzerland. Students enrolled in APU’s Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Tourism Management and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Tourism Management with Specialism in Hospitality programmes now have the opportunity to complete their final year at IMI, Switzerland, offering them an internationally recognised pathway in the heart of one of the world's leading hospitality hubs. 

Students are also extended with an opportunity to sign up for IMI Certification (internationally recognised qualification) while they are studying at APU. Graduates with APU degrees and IMI certifications will find themselves in higher career starting positions and will have better opportunities for career advancement. 

"The tourism and hospitality sector is one of the fastest-growing job markets globally, opening doors to diverse cultures and career paths," said Prof Dr Kashif Hussain, Head of SoGHT. "A degree in tourism, paired with IMI certification, equips graduates with a versatile skill set that extends far beyond the tourism industry." 

The session concluded with a Q&A session and a group photograph, capturing the spirit of collaboration and learning between the speakers, students, and faculty. 

World Tourism Day at APU highlighted not only the importance of sustainable tourism but also its role in building bridges of peace and understanding across the globe.