Forum Panelist / Moderator

Forum Panelist 1:

Prof. Dr. Mohd Salehuddin Mohd Zahari is a professor at UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, with extensive experience in hospitality and culinary arts. Holding a Ph.D. from Lincoln University, he has over a decade of industry experience across multiple countries. He has published over 200 academic works, supervised numerous postgraduate students, and held key academic leadership roles. Actively involved in professional associations, he has served as an editor, board member, and advisor for various hospitality institutions and journals.

Forum Panelist 2:

Mr Patrick Lau seasoned hotelier with more than 30 years of experience providing clients with the highest degree of hospitality and customer service by ensuring that facilities meet and exceed expectations. Strong leadership possessing outstanding work ethic and integrity, always dedicated to meeting budget and meticulously documenting financials. Manages by leading and showing staff the rewards of pushing past their own expectations to provide the best work possible. He is also a HRD Corp Accredited Trainer

Forum Moderator:

Dr. Mark Kasa, a senior lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, specializes in Human Resource Development with extensive hotel industry experience. He has held senior roles in top hotels like Sheraton and Crowne Plaza. His research focuses on HR development, emotional intelligence, and work engagement. Through teaching and publications, he contributes significantly to hospitality and positive psychology.

Culinary Expert 1:

Assoc. Prof. Christopher Wan Sageng is currently the Dean of Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management, UCSI University Sarawak Campus, Malaysia, and the General Manager of UCSI Hotel Kuching Sarawak. His stellar growth in the hospitality industry, from budding chef to hotel management and faculty leader is credited to his strong leadership capabilities and immense passion for all things culinary. With his charisma and stage presence, Christopher hosts his own two cooking shows and one documentary tv series - “Suduk Cerpu” ,”Inspirasi Chef”, “Unearth Sarawak Indigenous Cuisines” produced by Radio Television Malaysia/RTM and TVS, where he shares innovative recipes whilst promoting Sarawak’s tourist attractions. His major strengths and areas of research interest include gastronomy tourism, experiential learning, and hospitality education

Culinary Expert 2:

Assoc. Prof. Mohamed Fadly Che Omar is a Deputy Dean at Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism managemnet UCSI University and Head of Praxis, Industry and Industry engagement (PICE) at UCSI University Kuala Lumpur with extensive experience in hospitality and culinary arts. Holding a Master in Gastronomy form Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), he has over a decade of industry experience across multiple companies.