Examining the Difficulties Faced During Internships after the Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia: A Study among University Students in the Hospitality Industry

Abstract

Covid-19 epidemic has had a significant impact on the tourist and hotel industries. In the realm of hospitality education, the internship programme holds a prominent position as a fundamental component of the curriculum for a significant proportion of undergraduate degrees and diplomas. This programme affords students a valuable opportunity to get practical experience within the industry. This study presents an analysis of the difficulties encountered by hospitality students during their internship following the implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO). This article presents a quantitative research study that employs a survey questionnaire as the primary data collection method. The study focuses on university students who are participating in an internship programme within Malaysia's hospitality sector, with a minimum duration of two months. The data set obtained from a sample of 159 students studying in the field of hospitality. The results of the study indicate a statistically significant association between the obstacles faced by hospitality students during their internships after the Movement Control Order (MCO) and three independent variables: extra working hours, allowances, and manipulation. These findings are deemed to be valid and acceptable.