The Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative that is set to transform its educational offerings and provide unparalleled practical training for its students. The initiative centers around the construction of a five-story boutique hotel, which will serve as a living laboratory for students in the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Accounting (FPEP). Scheduled for completion in 2026, this RM10 million project is funded by the University Development Fund Reserve and promises to be a critical asset both for educational advancement and revenue generation.
Comprehensive Training Facilities
Multifaceted Educational Opportunities
The development of the boutique hotel has been officially in the works since its approval by UMS’s Board of Directors in December 2020. This state-of-the-art facility will include 18 rooms and a range of specialized training areas to enhance the employability and skill sets of graduates. Within the hotel, students will have access to an event hall, training kitchen, training restaurant, front office and reservation laboratory, housekeeping lab, pastry lab, and cafe lab. These diverse facilities are designed to meet the rigorous standards set by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), ensuring that graduates receive top-tier practical training.
The importance of this project cannot be overstated, as highlighted by UMS Vice Chancellor, Professor Datuk Dr. Kasim Mansor. He stressed that the hotel represents a significant investment in education, aimed at cultivating knowledgeable human capital essential for the country’s future development. By integrating academic coursework with hands-on training, the initiative offers an immersive learning experience that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Students will gain in-depth exposure to real-world scenarios, preparing them to thrive in the competitive hospitality and tourism industries.
Strategic Impact and Educational Excellence
The establishment of this living lab signifies a notable progression from the existing hospitality laboratory, which has been operating under less-than-ideal conditions since 2002. By providing students with a more robust and comprehensive training environment, UMS is taking a proactive approach to educational excellence. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Key Result Area 2 of UMS’s Strategic Plan 2023-2027, reinforcing the university’s commitment to delivering world-class education. The Strategic Plan focuses on enhancing practical training, thereby significantly boosting the competitiveness of UMS graduates in the job market.
In addition to educational benefits, the construction of the boutique hotel is also a strategic move to generate revenue for UMS. This dual-purpose approach ensures that the hotel will serve not only as a valuable educational tool but also as a financially sustainable venture. It is particularly symbolic, as the project coincides with UMS’s 30th-anniversary celebration, reflecting the institution’s longstanding commitment to innovation and educational leadership. The hotel will stand as a testament to UMS’s dedication to continual improvement and adaptation in the ever-evolving educational landscape.
Long-Term Vision and Regional Leadership
Enhancing Graduate Competitiveness
Central to the project is its aim to bolster practical training for students enrolled in the Hospitality Management and Tourism Management programs. This hands-on experience is vital for improving the competitiveness of UMS graduates. By offering a real-world training ground, the boutique hotel will equip students with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their future careers. The initiative is a forward-thinking strategy that addresses the growing demand for highly skilled professionals in Malaysia’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
By exposing students to a working hotel environment, UMS ensures that they gain practical insights and experience across various departments. From managing front office operations to running training kitchens and restaurants, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of the hospitality industry. This holistic approach to education is designed to produce well-rounded graduates capable of making substantial contributions to Malaysia’s development. The hotel project represents a seamless blend of theoretical learning and practical application, positioning UMS as a leader in producing industry-ready professionals.
A Sustainable Educational Model
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is launching an innovative initiative poised to revolutionize its educational offerings while providing unmatched practical training for its students. This ambitious project features the construction of a five-story boutique hotel, which will serve as a living laboratory for students in the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Accounting (FPEP). Scheduled for completion in 2026, this RM10 million endeavor is financed through the University Development Fund Reserve. The boutique hotel will be a transformative educational asset, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting. It will provide invaluable, practical training opportunities, bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice. Additionally, the hotel is expected to generate revenue, making it a financial boon for the institution. By integrating this unique setup within the educational framework, UMS aims to enhance both the quality of education and the employability of its graduates, setting a new standard in academic excellence and practical training.
