Tourism is more than an industry; it is a catalyst for transformation, inclusion, and opportunity. In celebration of World Tourism Day 2025 on 27 September, UNITAR International University proudly highlights the inspiring journeys of three alumni who have turned their passion into purpose by building successful careers in hospitality, culinary arts, and ecotourism.
Malaysia’s tourism sector is a vital economic engine, contributing RM332.2 billion to the national GDP (11.3%) and supporting over 3.5 million jobs in 2025, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). UNITAR plays a key role in this landscape, empowering students from rural communities to thrive in the vibrant tourism and hospitality industry.
Graduates of UNITAR’s School of Hospitality and Tourism, Elnie Julis, Cornelius Joanes, and N. Dery Jor hail from Sandakan, Kg Tambiau (Ranau), and Kota Marudu respectively. Today, they are thriving in the global tourism industry.
Meet the Changemakers!
Elnie Julis
- Sandakan
UNITAR gave me more than just skills, it gave me confidence and a future. I am dreaming of opening my own bakery and become a pastry lecturer.
Cornelius Joanes
- Ranau
Cornelius, currently works as a cook at Malacca Iso Omena Restaurant in Finland, began his journey at Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur and later joined cruise liners in the US.
Initially I was driven by the fully equipped kitchens at UNITAR. As a student, I gained so much knowledge from our experienced lecturers. It felt like the perfect place to start my career.
N. Dery Jor
- Kota Marudu
I’ve always been passionate about tourism and nature. UNITAR’s hands-on learning and industry exposure helped me understand how the tourism industry works. I now apply those skills daily as a tour guide promoting Sabah’s rich heritage and also in capturing wildfile in camera as a wildlife photographer.
UNITAR’s Impact on Malaysia’s Tourism Landscape
This year’s World Tourism Day theme, “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation,” reflects UNITAR’s commitment to building a resilient and inclusive tourism workforce. With
UNITAR campuses located in key tourism hubs—Sabah, Sarawak, Penang, Melaka, and the East Coast—UNITAR continues to serve as a gateway for students across Malaysia.
“Tourism is a powerful engine for national development, and at UNITAR, we see it as a pathway to uplift communities and unlock human potential. As a university, we are proud to contribute to the tourism industry. Our graduates are thriving locally and abroad and successfully shaping the future of hospitality and tourism,” said Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir. Dr. Sahol Hamid Bin Abu Bakar, Vice Chancellor of UNITAR International University.
UNITAR remains committed to offering accessible, career-ready education and continues to contribute meaningfully to Malaysia’s tourism sector through innovation, industry partnerships, and a deep belief in the potential of every learner.
About UNITAR International University
UNITAR International University (UNITAR) was established in 1997 as the first virtual university in Southeast Asia and among the earliest private universities in the country. It is the first institution in Asia to be awarded a QS 5-Star Rating for the Online Learning category. In alignment with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, UNITAR’s holistic and innovative learning ecosystem provides a comprehensive programme offering for all socio-economic levels whilst developing highly employable and entrepreneurial global citizens.
It aims to go beyond just providing the learning journey for students in acquiring relevant skill sets, but through their C.A.R.E. — Collaborative, Adaptive, Reflective, and Entrepreneurial education methodology, UNITAR nurtures its students in developing self-awareness of their talents and abilities, as well inculcating in them the need for social responsibility whilst moulding them to be better citizens of the nation.
UNITAR’s programmes are offered in 13 locations, including its main campus in urban Kelana Jaya. It has a total enrolment of over 7,000 students spread within 40 homegrown programmes ranging from the Foundation, Diploma and Bachelor’s levels to the postgraduate Master’s and Doctorate’s. To meet the current needs of the industries, UNITAR also provides over 50 professional certification programmes. With APEL, working professionals can continue their education journey with the option to reduce their programme duration.
UNITAR takes pride in having committed academics housed in various faculties and schools. The academic verticals comprise of the Faculty of Business, Faculty of Education & Humanities, the School of Information Technology and School of Media, Arts & Design. Since its inception, UNITAR has embarked on an innovative learning methodology where technology is featured significantly but never aimed to replace human relationships. Its pursuit to offer competitive.
About UNITAR Education Group
UNITAR Education Group was first established in 1991 to provide inclusive learning opportunities, produce industry-ready and globally oriented graduates, and foster academic and career success.
In 1991, UNITAR College was established to provide aspiring students with the opportunity to move ahead in their education pathway with our industry-recognised Certificate, Diploma & SKM programmes.
In 1997, UNITAR International University was established as the First Virtual University in Southeast Asia and among the earliest private universities in the country. It is the first institution in Asia to be awarded a QS 5-Star Rating for the Online Learning category.
In 2006, Kuala Lumpur Metropolitan University College (KLMUC) was established in the heart of Kuala Lumpur as a progressive and innovative higher learning institution with two distinctive faculties and one centre offering 18 programmes.
In 2016, UNITAR Academy was also established as a Professional Development Centre, focused on skyrocketing talent development strategies. Through rigorous preparation, we provide continuous learning opportunities for the working class, creating endless career opportunities for the next generation of leaders. On-Campus or Online, the Academy is suited for all your developmental needs.
In alignment with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, UNITAR’s holistic and innovative learning ecosystem provides a comprehensive programme offering for all socio-economic levels whilst developing highly employable and entrepreneurial global citizens.
Official Media Contact
Josephine Dionisappu
Head of Corporate Communications
UNITAR Education Group
ym.ratinu@uppasinoid.enihpesoj
+60 12 376 0029
