Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) proudly hosted the 18th THE-ICE International Panel of Experts (IPoE) Forum 2025 from 19–21 October 2025, at M-Square Building, MFU, and Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort. Under the theme ‘Adapting to Global Shifts: Innovating Tourism and Hospitality Education for a Sustainable Future’, the forum served as a premier global platform for academic exchange in tourism and hospitality education, bringing together renowned academics, university executives, and industry leaders from around the world to share insights and best practices.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Darunee Wattanasiriwech, Vice President of MFU, presided over the opening ceremony. Distinguished guest included Dr. Piyatida Pianluprasidh, Dean of the School of Management, Dr. Craig Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of THE-ICE, and Ms. Gienke Osinga, Chair of THE-ICE Board of Directors.
In her welcoming remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Darunee stated that this year’s theme was both timely and inspiring. She noted that the hospitality industry has transformed under the forces of technology, climate change, and evolving social expectations. These changes challenge educators and professionals to rethink how we teach, learn, and lead—to ensure that the next generation not only possesses the right skills but also embodies the values of sustainability, resilience, and empathy.
A highlight of the forum was the keynote panel on “Asian Hospitality – Is it the Future of Hospitality?”, featuring senior executives from Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, The Peninsula Bangkok, and Dubai College of Tourism. The discussion explored the essence of Asian hospitality—renowned for its warmth, attention to detail, and holistic care—and how these values are increasingly shaping the global hotel industry.
Another key plenary panel, “Re-examining the Triple Bottom Line-Balancing Social, Environmental and Economic Influences on the Tourism and Hospitality Industry”, brought together experts from Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Thailand Chapter, Chayadol Resort, Dusit Thani College, and the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Italy. They examined how businesses can balance economic growth, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship within the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The forum also featured a session on “Globalisation Trends and Cross-Cultural Competence in Tourism and Hospitality Education”, led by representatives from Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), César Ritz Colleges Switzerland, and Stream Events Asia Ltd., emphasizing the need for developing intercultural skills among students to enhance their ability to work effectively in diverse global contexts.
In addition, experts from Phuket International Airport, Kempinski Hotels, and NIDA joined the discussion on “Innovations and Technological Advancements in Tourism, Hospitality, and Aviation”, which focused on the integration of digital technology, artificial intelligence, and innovation to enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency, and create competitive advantages.
The event also included the presentation of research under the THE-ICE Research Grant Scheme (RGS) 2025, featuring studies on “Transforming Hospitality and Tourism Education Through Challenge Based Learning” and “Bridging Sustainability and Education: Integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Tourism and Hospitality Curricula” by scholars from Australia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Participants also enjoyed an enriching Lanna cultural experience through a Campus Tour of MFU’s Botanical Garden and the Mekong Basin Civilization Museum, where they learned about the university’s philosophy of “Restore Forest, Cultivate People,” inspired by the late HRH Princess Srinagarindra, reflecting MFU’s commitment to sustainability.
The THE-ICE IPoE Forum 2025 provided a valuable platform for academics and industry professionals to strengthen international collaboration, exchange best practices, and shape the future direction of tourism and hospitality education—with a focus on sustainability, technological integration, and cultural value creation. Moreover, students of the School of Management had a chance to showcase their skills related to conference organosation, food and beverage, hospitality management, and tourism while hosting this event.
As the host, Mae Fah Luang University reaffirmed its readiness to serve as a regional hub for international education and knowledge exchange, advancing excellence in hospitality and tourism education in alignment with global trends.
