Taylor's HEX Talk Event Series 2023: Championing Halal Globally

School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Events (SHTE), Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University has organized the Hospitality Executive (HEX) Talk Event Series 2023 with the topic of ‘Championing Halal Globally’. This event was held on 14 September 2023, at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in conjunction with the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS).

Our distinguished Panelists for the event included Y.Bhg Dato’ Sri Dr. Irmohizam bin Ibrahim, Chairman of Conferences & Exhibitions, Member Advisory Council (MAC), World Trade Centre Association (WTCA), Mr. Amran bin Yem, Senior Director, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), Ms. Winnee Lim, General Manager of Business Development, Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), and Ms. Jane Vong Holmes, Senior Manager of Asia, International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

The event commenced with an enlightening presentation by Mr. Amran, unveiling the fascinating journey of MIHAS since its inception in 2004. His insights into Malaysia’s Halal Exports were particularly eye-opening, showcasing figures like RM27.84 billion for Food and Beverages (F&B) and RM23.35 billion for Halal ingredients. Moreover, discovering the top five Halal destinations including China, Singapore, Japan, the USA, and Indonesia – added a global perspective to the discourse.

The dialogue continued with an engaging sharing session, where the Panelists tackled a few questions posed by the Moderator, Dr. Khairiah Ismail, Senior Lecturer, School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Events, Taylor's University. Questions ranged from the necessity of spreading global awareness about Halal products to MIHAS’ pivotal role in positioning Malaysia on the international stage within the context of Halal trade and culture. Furthermore, the discussion touched on MIHAS’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event would not have been possible without the dedication and meticulous planning of eight students from Taylor's Bachelor of International Events Management programme, they were Gurpreet Kaur, Lee Qian Hui, Mariyam Shaufa, Rahaf Abdullah, Doaa Imam, Kathrina Maria, Yap Shuen Ting, and Abdullah Nabil Aldammak, as the emcee. Their tireless efforts under the guidance of Dr. Khairiah Ismail ensured the event’s success. In summary, the HEX Talk Event Series 2023 provided invaluable insights into the global Halal industry, thanks to our distinguished Panel Speakers and the participation of attendees.

Taylor’s ADTP Orientation Day | Preparing for a Successful Start to Fall 2023

Taylor’s American Degree Transfer Program (ADTP) recently welcomed a new batch of students, starting off the day with a series of orientation activities that were structured to ensure that the new students received a comprehensive introduction to the university life.

The day commenced with a warm welcome speech by Professor Dr. Anindita Dasgupta, Head of School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, where she emphasized the program’s commitment to academic excellence and support for students. She encouraged the students to interact, make new friends, and create a sense of belonging.

ADTP’s Programme Director, Dr. Loh Kah Heng, introduced the new students to their lecturers, academic mentors, support staff, and student leaders who then took turns to speak at length during their dedicated sessions. The new students were encouraged to explore their interests by joining clubs and societies that are available on campus. They were also briefed on academic expectations, available support groups and university placement services.

At the end of the session, the new students met with lecturers who are their dedicated mentors. The mentors will facilitate academic guidance and equip the students with important knowledge in order for them to succeed in their academic journey and to transfer on to reputable universities in the United States as well as other parts of the world.

Landing Internship Opportunity of a Lifetime to Taylor's Digital Media Production Students

Six (6) Digital Media Production students spent their semester break interning on an upcoming Netflix show with Revolution Media, Eureka Production and Netflix Australia. They spent their time both in the office and on set, being exposed to multiple roles at once. During the short 2 weeks period of internship, they spent their days exchanging experiences with people from the industry.

During their office days, they were assigned to behind-the-scenes tasks that include finding transport and accommodation, helping to organize the accounting department, and many more. The students had the opportunity to set foot in rare places during the shoot. Those locations include places that require early bookings and restricted sites. While they were on set, they worked with as many departments as they could, which gave them an insight into what exactly each department does. They were also allowed to go into a place known as 'Video Village', where all the Producers and Directors sat as the shoot was taking place.

This internship offers more than just a glimpse into the industry, it also provides an opportunity to connect and learn from both local and international production house. The students were described as “energetic” and “cheerful” and were told that they (international crew) would love to bring them back home in a suitcase. As they return to their studies, they will carry with them an enriched perspective on the multifaceted realm of media production.

Ms. Zabrina Fernandez, the Producer of C47 Creative and an Adjunct Professor for the School of Media and Communication, had this to say: "The interns were a joy to have on set. They came in with so much enthusiasm to do everything we threw at them and courage to be heard with their questions and (some) outspoken personalities. They were a true asset on set."