HEX Talk Tourism 2025 on Airline Strategies for a Changing World Supported by Student Chapter
Subang Jaya, Malaysia, 3rd July 2025 – PATA Malaysia Taylor's Student Chapter (PATA MTSC) served on the supporting committee for HEX Talk Tourism 2025: Altitude 2025 – Airline Strategies for a Changing World, an industry forum held on 3rd July 2025 at Taylor's University that brought together aviation leaders to discuss the future of global airline operations.
HEX Talk Tourism 2025 was organised by Taylor's University's School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events as part of its industry engagement series, with PATA MTSC providing operational support throughout the event. Held at Lecture Theatre 12, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the forum was themed Altitude 2025: Airline Strategies for a Changing World and focused on how airlines are adapting to sustainability demands, evolving passenger expectations, and emerging technologies in global travel.
The forum opened with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management at Taylor's University. The session was moderated by Y.M. Tunku Dato' Seri (Dr) Iskandar Bin Tunku Abdullah, Group Executive Chairman of Melewar Group Berhad and past Chairman, Life Member, and current Executive Board Member of the Pacific Asia Travel Association. The keynote address and panel discussion featured Ms. Kathleen Leong, Senior Manager of Business Development at SITA Malaysia, Mr. Germal Singh Khera, Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ascend Airways Malaysia, Mr. Khoo Hock Aun, Director of Green Renewable Organic World, and Mr. Nantha Gopal Muniandy, Lecturer at Taylor's University's School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events. Together, the panel explored airline strategy, sustainable aviation fuels and environmental responsibility, digital transformation in air travel, and the workforce needs of a changing industry.
The event was also attended by representatives from the PATA Malaysia Chapter, including Honorary Secretary Y.Bhg. Datuk M. Ali, Executive Secretary Mr. GP Subramaniam, and Committee Member Mr. Eric Sinnaya, strengthening the connection between PATA MTSC and the wider PATA Malaysia network. PATA MTSC's supporting committee was led by Qilla as Head, with Head of Recruitment Kai Shen serving as Deputy Head. Secretary Cassandra and Assistant Head of Activities Jason served as masters of ceremonies, while Head of Activities Koharu managed live streaming. President Iyaan and Assistant Head of Marketing Malha handled IT support, taking charge of slides and video control
throughout the forum. Vice President Aayush, Head of Marketing Maria, and Treasurer Hamad served as event coordinators, while Assistant Head of Recruitment Zaara and Assistant Head of Newsletter Yua managed registration. Assistant Head of Recruitment Zaara also contributed to photography and videography alongside the documentation team. Head of Newsletter Virginia and Head of Alumni Zoya joined Vice President Aayush and other members in coordinating the support teams that assisted guests on the day.
By supporting an event that placed students in direct contact with senior figures from the airline, technology, and sustainability sectors, PATA MTSC reinforced its role as a bridge between tourism education at Taylor's University and the global aviation industry. The forum aligned with SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 9 on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 13 on Climate Action, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. PATA MTSC thanks the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events, the speakers, the PATA Malaysia Chapter representatives, and all members of the supporting committee for their contribution to a meaningful dialogue on the future of global aviation leadership.
About PATA Malaysia Taylor's Student Chapter (PATA MTSC)
The PATA Malaysia Taylor's Student Chapter (PATA MTSC) is the official student chapter of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) at Taylor's University, based within the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events. PATA MTSC serves as a platform for students to connect with the tourism industry, empowering youth to initiate change, build global networks with industry players, and enhance industry knowledge through events and projects.
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For more information
Abdulla Iyaan Ahmed
President 2025/2026
PATA Malaysia Taylor's Student Chapter
About Taylor's University
Taylor's University is a leading private university in Malaysia, located in Subang Jaya, Selangor. Recognised for its strong programmes in hospitality, tourism, and events management, the university is committed to developing well rounded graduates who engage in social responsibility for the environment and community.