APU has partnered with Switzerland’s HTMi to launch a new centre. This collaboration unites Swiss excellence with Malaysian innovation, offering a dual-award programme that gives students a global and immersive education in hospitality and tourism.

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), a leading Malaysian university with Premier Digital Tech University status and a QS 5 Stars Plus rating, has officially launched the APU and HTMi Switzerland - Kuala Lumpur Centre. 

This landmark initiative, the first of its kind established by a Swiss hospitality school in Malaysia, was unveiled at a special ceremony held on 25th August 2025, during the the Global Hospitality and Tourism Forum (GHTF) 2025 and 11th International Conference on Hospitality and Tourism (ICOHT) 2025. 

This bespoke partnership between APU’s School of Global Hospitality and Tourism (SoGHT) and Hotel and Tourism Management Institute (HTMi) Switzerland is a significant investment aimed at elevating hospitality and tourism education. 

The new centre will deliver a curriculum that combines Swiss excellence with Malaysian innovation, focusing on practical learning for those seeking careers in this dynamic field. 

“By combining world-class knowledge with real-world experiences, we are not just enhancing employability; we are providing a powerful launchpad into the international hospitality and tourism industry,” said APU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan. 

“Many institutions aspire to put people first, but at APU, we turn that aspiration into action. By investing in new facilities and programmes, we empower our students to achieve competitive excellence.” 

Students enrolled in specific programmes — the Diploma in Events Management, the Diploma in Hotel Management, and the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism — will now have the opportunity to earn a dual qualification from both APU Malaysia and the globally respected HTMi Switzerland. 

This unique dual-award scheme means that upon graduation, students will receive two separate degree certificates and transcripts, significantly boosting their career prospects. 

Mr Ian Larmour, CEO of HTMi Switzerland, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration. 

“I am truly happy to invest and develop the APU and HTMi Switzerland - Kuala Lumpur Centre, which is going to be an outstanding centre that will give an immersive experience and allow students to gain hands-on exposure to Swiss hospitality culture and develop a truly global perspective.” 

Professor Dr Kashif Hussain, APU Senior Head of SoGHT and School of Business (SoB), highlighted the partnership’s value, stating, “This dual affiliation will enhance professional capabilities and build a strong bridge between learning and career progression.” 

He added, “We look forward to nurturing future-ready professionals, shaped by both academic excellence and industry wisdom.” 

To further enhance this international experience, students on the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism programme can opt for a two-week study trip to HTMi Switzerland during their second year. 

APU will generously cover the costs of accommodation, meals, airport transfers, and programme fees, with students only responsible for their airfare, travel insurance, and personal expenses. 

In addition to this programme, APU offers a range of other degrees, including the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Tourism Management, the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Tourism Management with a specialism in Hospitality, and several specialisms within the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Hospitality and Tourism, such as Hospitality Innovation, Events Management, and Aviation Management. 

This collaboration marks a major milestone for both institutions, reinforcing their long-term commitment to professional development and their belief that investing in people is an investment for the future.