KUCHING: The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in higher education and the hospitality industry emerged as a central theme at a recent forum organised by UCSI University.
The event brought together industry experts and educators to discuss the future of sustainability in education and tourism, emphasising the importance of preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
During Forum 2, titled “Building a Sustainable Future: Integrating ESG into Hospitality Education”, the forum was moderated by Mukvinder Kaur Sandhu from UCSI University and featured Dr Bibiana Lim Chiu, a lecturer from Swinburne University, alongside Joseph Wong King Hao, a representative from Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort.
The forum commenced with a presentation on the relevance of ESG in contemporary education.
Bibiana set the stage by explaining how the principles of sustainability are not merely add-ons to academic programs but are increasingly becoming integral to the curriculum.
She pointed out that the need for transformative education has never been more pressing, as students will soon be the leaders and decision-makers in their respective fields.
“The goal is to cultivate a generation of responsible leaders who are not only aware of sustainability issues but also equipped to tackle them effectively,” Bibiana said this during the 3rd Education in Hospitality and Tourism Forum (EHTF) in conjunction with 1 Asia Pacific Summit for Event Leaders (APSEL) 2024 at Ballroom 1 & 2, Level 4, UCSI Hotel Kuching, Thursday (Oct 24).
Bibiana elaborated on the three pillars of ESG—environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and effective governance—and how they relate to the educational landscape.
She emphasised that students must grasp these concepts comprehensively to understand their implications in various sectors, especially in hospitality, which has a profound impact on both the environment and local communities.
“Educating students about ESG helps them realise the importance of ethical decision-making, and how their choices can affect the world around them,” she added.
The forum highlighted various initiatives at UCSI University that integrate ESG into their programmes.
For example, students are encouraged to participate in projects that address real-world sustainability challenges. These initiatives not only provide hands-on learning experiences but also foster a sense of community and responsibility among students.
“We want our students to see themselves as change-makers in their communities,” Bibiana stated, reinforcing the university’s commitment to sustainability.
Shifting the focus to the hospitality industry, Wong shared valuable insights from his experience at Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort, where sustainability is a core operational principle.
He explained how the resort has adopted a variety of ESG initiatives, including local sourcing, waste reduction, and community engagement.
He stressed that businesses can thrive while adhering to sustainable practices, a notion that is increasingly gaining traction among consumers.
One of the standout features of Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort’s sustainability efforts is its zero-waste philosophy.
He elaborated on how the resort has implemented innovative solutions to minimise waste, such as composting food scraps and using them to enrich the soil for local gardens.
“We believe that every piece of waste can be turned into a resource,” he said, highlighting the importance of creative problem-solving in sustainability efforts.
Moreover, he emphasised the importance of local employment in promoting social equity. By hiring locals and providing them with training opportunities, the resort not only contributes to the community’s economic growth but also enhances the guest experience by offering authentic, culturally-rich services.
“When guests interact with local staff, they get a taste of the culture, which adds value to their experience,” he noted.
A significant portion of the forum was dedicated to discussing the collaboration between academic institutions and industries.
Bibiana and Wong both agreed that partnerships are essential for effectively integrating ESG principles into educational curricula and real-world practices.
“We need to create pathways for students to engage with industries, learn from them, and apply their knowledge in practical settings,” Bibiana remarked.
Internships and work placements were identified as crucial components in bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Wong shared his commitment to providing internship opportunities at Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort for UCSI University students.
“By allowing students to work in a real-world environment, they gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that exist within the hospitality sector,” he explained.
The panellists also discussed the importance of ongoing professional development for educators, suggesting that faculty should stay updated on industry trends and sustainability practices to provide relevant and current instruction.
“Educators must be well-informed about the practical applications of ESG in their fields to better prepare their students,” Bibiana emphasised.
Throughout the forum, both panellists underscored the notion that fostering a culture of sustainability extends beyond formal education and business practices.
Bibiana and Wong called for a holistic approach that involves students, educators, and industry professionals working together to promote sustainable values in their communities.
“It’s about building a mindset that prioritises sustainability in all aspects of life,” Bibiana stated.
To exemplify this, Wong shared a recent initiative at Borneo Empurau Farm & Resort where guests were invited to participate in sustainability workshops.
These workshops focused on topics such as composting, sustainable cooking practices, and understanding local ecosystems.
By involving guests in these activities, the resort not only educates visitors but also creates a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
“When people see how their actions impact the world, they are more likely to make sustainable choices,” said Wong.
In closing, the forum provided a rich dialogue on the critical importance of ESG integration in shaping the future of education and the hospitality industry.
Both Bibiana and Wong reiterated that while the journey toward sustainability may be challenging, the collective efforts of educational institutions and industry leaders can drive meaningful change.
“Small steps matter,” Bibiana remarked, encouraging educators and industry leaders to instil sustainable values in the next generation.
The discussion underscored that the integration of ESG principles in education and business practices is not merely a trend but a necessary evolution to address pressing global challenges.
“As students graduate and enter the workforce, their understanding of sustainability and ethical practices will shape the future of industries and communities alike,” she said.
