The W Factor: APU’s SoGHT Students Exposed to Luxury Careers

The curriculum-aligned session, dedicated to the MICE subject, provided a platform for exploring professional opportunities, understanding global market adaptations, and fostering direct industry networking.

Front row, SoGHT academics, along with the W Kuala Lumpur team: (from left) Chef Zaishahrizal Zamani, Mr Jawad Husny Saari @ Asha’ri, Prof Dr Kashif Hussain (Head of SoGHT), Mr Ameer Ash (W KL Training Director), Ms Khoo Chyi Chi (W KL Human Resources Officer), Mr Kumaresu Murugasu @ Murugesi and Mr Shazeel Ali Sardar Ali.

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation’s (APU) School of Global Hospitality and Tourism (SoGHT) recently hosted a dynamic career talk, ‘Bridging Education and Industry: A Career Pathway in Hospitality and Tourism’, offering students invaluable insights into the vibrant world of hospitality.

Held at APU’s state-of-the-art facility on Level 6, the event, featuring industry professionals from W Kuala Lumpur, provided a crucial link between academic learning and real-world career opportunities.

W Kuala Lumpur or W Hotels, situated in central Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a modern luxury hotel celebrated for its stylish design, prime location close to the Petronas Twin Towers, and extensive luxurious amenities.

These include a rooftop pool with city views, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a spa, and varied dining. Its vibrant social scene and excellent service make it ideal for those seeking a lively, high-end stay.

Mr Shazeel Ali Sardar Ali, Senior Lecturer at SoGHT, spearheaded the career talk, which was meticulously designed to equip students, especially Mariam Samha from Maldives, with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse career avenues in the rapidly evolving hospitality sector.

Mr Kumaresu Murugasu @ Murugesi delivered the opening speech for the career talk.

“This event aimed to shed light on how the industry is adapting to global market changes and to foster direct connections between students and industry professionals, recruiters, and potential employers,” he explained.

Mr Ameer Ash, Training Director at W Hotels, conducted the engaging session, accompanied by Ms Khoo Chyi Chi, Human Resources Officer.

Their expertise offered attendees a unique perspective on the practical aspects of hospitality careers, particularly within the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) subject, aligning perfectly with the students’ curriculum.

The event drew an enthusiastic audience of 24 students from the Bachelor of Arts in Tourism Management programme, all eager to learn from the industry leaders.

The session provided a platform for interactive discussions, allowing students to gain first-hand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities within the hospitality landscape.

A lively Q&A session ensued, with students keen to tap into Mr. Ameer Ash’s knowledge, and he responded with thoughtful, crystal-clear answers.

“This career talk is an essential bridge between our students and the industry,” added Shazeel Ali “By bringing professionals like Mr Ameer Ash and Ms Khoo Chyi Chi to APU, we are providing our students with invaluable insights that will shape their future careers.”

The focus on the MICE subject was particularly relevant, as it highlighted a specialised area within the tourism and hospitality sector that offers significant career potential.

Students gained a deeper understanding of the complexities and rewards of organising large-scale events, conferences, and exhibitions.

The event culminated with Prof Dr Kashif Hussain, Head of SoGHT, presenting a token of appreciation to Mr Ameer Ash, acknowledging W Hotels’ contribution to the students’ learning journey.

By connecting students directly with industry professionals, APU continues to pave the way for successful careers in the ever-changing field of hospitality and tourism.

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Prof Dr Kashif Hussain (right) presented the token of appreciation to Mr Ameer Ash (middle), accompanied by Mr Kumaresu Murugasu @Murugesi (left).