Taylor’s Student Chapter Earns Prestigious Recognition at the 2026 PATA Awards
The School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events, Taylor’s University, proudly celebrated the outstanding achievement of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Malaysia Taylor’s Student Chapter at the 2026 PATA Awards. The recognition reflected the Chapter’s continued contributions to advancing youth leadership, professional engagement, and responsible tourism through meaningful industry collaboration, community initiatives, and student-led activities.
Former Chapter Chair Abdulla Iyaan Ahmed, who currently serves as President of the PATA Malaysia Chapter Student Wing, was conferred the prestigious PATA Face of the Future Student Excellence. The accolade recognised his exemplary leadership, commitment to youth empowerment, and contributions to the advancement of responsible tourism. Currently pursuing the Bachelor of International Tourism Management (Honours), Iyaan will commence his internship in September, building on his leadership experience, industry exposure, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
The achievement reflected the collective efforts of the PATA Malaysia Taylor’s Student Chapter in developing confident, socially responsible, and industry-ready tourism professionals. Through sustained participation in professional forums, sustainability initiatives, community engagement, and tourism advocacy, the Chapter has fostered meaningful connections among students, industry stakeholders, and the broader community.
The Chapter’s achievements were further strengthened by the dedicated mentorship of Dr. Thanam Subramaniam, Advisor to the Student Chapter, together with the continued guidance of Prof. Dr. Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kandappan Balasubramanian. The recognition underscored Taylor’s University’s commitment to developing future-ready tourism professionals who lead with purpose, champion responsible practices, and create meaningful impact across the tourism and hospitality landscape. It also highlighted the University’s continued efforts to empower students to contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and responsible global tourism industry.