Developing Work-Ready TVET Hospitality Graduates: Key Skills for Industry Success

This study explores the key employability skills required by current Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates in the hospitality industry, focusing on the perspectives of human resource professionals from 4-star and 5-star hotels in Peninsular Malaysia. Recognizing the high turnover and retention challenges in the sector, the research adopts a qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews with ten experienced HR personnel. The findings identify four critical skill domains: basic skills, interpersonal skills, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and ethics and professionalism. These skills are essential for ensuring TVET graduates are well-prepared, adaptable, and resilient in the dynamic hospitality environment. Grounded in Mayer’s Key Competency Framework, the study advocates for a curriculum that integrates soft skills development, industry engagement, and continuous professional learning to bridge the gap between education and workplace expectations. The research provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders to enhance the employability and retention of TVET hospitality graduates in the current work environment.