Student Talk Series: The Hidden Side of My Country
Subang Jaya, Malaysia, 9th October 2025 – PATA Malaysia Taylor's Student Chapter (PATA MTSC) held the October edition of its Student Talk Series on 9th October 2025 via Zoom. Themed "The Hidden Side of My Country," the session brought together four student speakers and 70 attendees for an hour of peer to peer sharing on lesser known tourism destinations.
The Student Talk Series is a recurring initiative by PATA MTSC that gives members a platform to share knowledge about tourism, travel, and culture. The October session was held online via Zoom from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and was emceed by Assistant Head of Activities Jason Hor Chun Xian. Four PATA MTSC members presented on hidden and lesser known aspects of their home countries, each followed by a Q&A session with the audience.
Kurumi Eriguchi presented on Fukuoka, Japan, highlighting areas outside the city centre including Fukutsu, home to local shrines and beaches, and Itoshima, known for its scenic landscapes and local food.
Sarasa Haseo shared hidden corners of Tokyo, covering spots such as Yanaka Ginza, Todoroki Valley, Rikugien Garden, and Omoide Yokocho food street, and introduced a concept of following Tokyo taxi drivers' restaurant recommendations as a way to discover authentic local dining. Qilla Pandang Nathania presented on Indonesia, showcasing the country's diversity across its islands, from the wildlife of Sumatra and the ancient temples of Java to the rainforests of Kalimantan and the marine life of Papua's Raja Ampat.
Aayush Bashyal presented on Nepal beyond its well known mountain landscapes, introducing hidden natural destinations such as Rara Lake, Tsum Valley, and Koshi Tapu, alongside Nepal's cultural practices and traditional dishes including Samay Baji and Momo.
The session was attended by 70 students via Zoom. By giving members the floor to present on their home countries, the Student Talk Series creates space for peer to peer learning that complements formal tourism education. The event highlighted the variety of destinations and cultures represented within PATA MTSC and encouraged members to look beyond popular tourism sites when exploring a destination, reflecting the chapter's commitment to SDG 4 on Quality Education.
PATA MTSC thanks all four speakers for their presentations and Jason Hor Chun Xian for emceeing the session. The chapter looks forward to continuing the Student Talk Series in the coming months with more knowledge sharing from its diverse membership.
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.
Facebook: facebook.com/PATA.MTSC
Instagram: instagram.com/patasc_my/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/pata-mtsc/
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.