Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Dr Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin raised the need for improved training programs in the hospitality and service sectors during the 21st Legislative Council Session Thursday. He emphasised the importance of upgrading infrastructure, facilities, and service quality to attract more tourists, particularly by engaging and upskilling the youth.
In response, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin highlighted that the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) has implemented various training programs aimed at enhancing the skills and capabilities of youth in the hospitality and tourism industry.
For 2024, a total of 17 training courses and three knowledge transfer programs have been conducted, benefitting over 300 participants. These include courses such as Basic Bird Watching, Specialised Tourist Guide Training, the Bandar Seri Begawan Heritage Trail, and storytelling and customer service training in collaboration with SEAMEO Voctech.
MPRT has also partnered with embassies of friendly nations to facilitate language courses in Russian, Turkish, and Mandarin. Additionally, institutions such as the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) and private colleges play an active role in hospitality training, including food presentation and service excellence.
Recognising the vital role of high-quality services in attracting international visitors, the ministry remains committed to expanding training and capacity-building initiatives, particularly for youth eager to join the hospitality industry, the minister affirmed.- Lyna Mohammad
