By UOW Malaysia 

The year began on a high note for the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts (SHTCA) at UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with the prestigious Shangri-La Far Eastern Taipei on 2 March 2026. The agreement marks an exciting step forward in strengthening industry–academia collaboration, creating new opportunities for students to gain international exposure and hands-on training in one of Asia’s leading luxury hotels. Representing SHTCA was Head of School Ms Cindy Loh, while the hotel delegation included Resident Manager Ms Kiki Tai, Director of HR Ms Karen Tien, Learning & Development Manager Mr Hank Chen, and Executive Chef Mr William Tan.

Located in Taipei’s vibrant Da’an district, the award-winning hotel is renowned for its world-class hospitality, featuring 5 restaurants, 3 bars and lounges, extensive event facilities, and over 400 luxury rooms and suites. The partnership will provide SHTCA students with valuable internship placements, allowing them to learn directly from seasoned industry professionals.

In an exciting development, 4 SHTCA students have already successfully secured internships with the hotel and will begin their training in June 2026. Mr Hank Chen expressed his enthusiasm in welcoming the 1^st batch of interns to Taipei, while Executive Chef William Tan — himself an alumnus of SHTCA Penang — shared his pride in mentoring students from his alma mater in the hotel’s professional kitchens.

For the students, the opportunity represents more than just an internship. Final-year culinary arts student Ella April Lee looks forward to experiencing Taiwan’s diverse culinary culture and learning professional kitchen discipline in an international environment. Meanwhile, hotel and tourism management student Shawnsky Chiew is eager to immerse himself in Shangri-La’s renowned culture of warm hospitality and teamwork.

With this partnership, SHTCA continues to expand its global industry connections, opening doors for students to gain meaningful international experience and develop into confident hospitality professionals.