The School of Food Studies & Gastronomy (SFSG) and the School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Events (SHTE) are delighted to announce a landmark collaboration with the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA). This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) solidifies our commitment to bridging academia and industry, providing invaluable opportunities for our students while fortifying the esteemed reputation of SFSG and SHTE. The MoU was signed and witnessed by leaders from both organizations. Taylor’s University was represented by Ms. Siti Ramadhaniatun Ismail, Head of the School of Food Studies & Gastronomy, and Dr. Ruth Sabina Francis, Programme Director of the Bachelor of International Hospitality Management (Hons). MRCA was represented by Ms. Valerie Choo Yoke Shiem, Chief of F&B Division, and the President YBhg Dato' Sharan J. Valiram.
MRCA, a powerhouse in the Malaysian retail sector, serves as a nexus for influential retail organizations, fostering opportunities to propel the industry's growth and global reach. This partnership was a testament to our dedication to staying at the forefront of industry trends and engaging with influential voices. Our association with MRCA F&B Division offers numerous benefits, including affiliation with a strong F&B industry advocate, knowledge sharing, guidance on franchising, assistance in the Halal application process, and access to a robust network of F&B investors and suppliers. SFSG and SHTE are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the dynamic F&B landscape through this collaboration.
The collaboration also extended to talent development, providing our graduates with exposure to real-world industry scenarios. Additionally, SFSG and SHTE will also engage in collaborative Research & Development projects with MRCA F&B Division, driving the commercialization of innovative solutions. The partnership also entailed the development of Retail Management modules under the MRCA Academy, offering students tailored learning experiences.
In conclusion, this collaboration amplified our commitment to comprehensive education, preparing students for the challenges of the evolving F&B and retail industry. We are enthusiastic about the opportunities and accomplishments that will stem from this partnership, and we look forward to collectively shaping the future of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management.