Developing an Inclusiveness Educational Hospitality Framework for Sustainable Tourism in Pulau Langkawi: A Stakeholder-Centred Approach

Abstract

This study aims to develop an Inclusiveness Educational Hospitality Framework that supports sustainable tourism in Pulau Langkawi through a stakeholder-centred approach. Inclusive education plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to hospitality training for students with diverse needs, particularly those enrolled in Special Education Program Integration (PPKI). The proposed framework connects the Langkawi Tourism Academy (LTA), District Education Office (PPD), and The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa, establishing a comprehensive structure for technical learning, on-the-job training (OJT), and industry-aligned competency development. A cross-sectional quantitative design was used to examine the influence of OJT, training effectiveness, and training content on work group inclusion. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire incorporating established measurement items and analysed using SmartPLS to assess the measurement and structural models. Findings demonstrate adequate reliability and convergent validity, providing evidence that inclusiveness-driven training contributes to students’ belongingness and workplace adaptability. This research offers practical implications for hospitality education providers by promoting structured collaboration between institutions and industry to enhance accessibility, skill readiness, and social inclusion. The framework supports national efforts to strengthen the hospitality talent pipeline while advancing Malaysia’s sustainable tourism and inclusive development agenda.