Chicken Woes and Customer Blues: A KFC Saga of Ignorance

I want to share an enlightening and somewhat hilarious experience I had at KFC during what should have been a simple lunch escapade. Brace yourselves for a tale of fried chicken, communication mishaps, and the perplexing disappearance of customer service values.

Picture this: A customer, armed with an insatiable hunger for some finger-lickin' goodness, goes into KFC. The ordering process at the kiosk? Flawless. The crowd? Non-existent. Everything's smooth sailing until I uttered those fateful words: "Just the chicken breast, please."

To my amazement, my polite request for a breast-only ensemble was met with stone-faced silence from the dynamic duo behind the counter. Maybe chicken breasts are the unicorns of KFC, I pondered. But no, it seems I was dealing with the Houdinis of the fried chicken world, as they magically vanished into a realm of mutual indifference and fried chicken fascination.

Not knowing if they hear me, again, I attempt to pierce through their chicken-centric trance, I graciously increase my vocal amplitude. The response? "Not enough chicken breast," declared from afar, without turning around to look at me.

The Social Conundrum:

Well, before you think this is just another fast-food complaint, let's reflect on a more profound issue. It's not merely about the elusive chicken breast but the state of our society. Are we witnessing a decline in communication skills, a surge in self-centeredness, and a general disregard for others' basic expectations?

The perpetrators in this case were not ancient relics but spry individuals in their 20s. In an era of advanced technology and kiosk-driven orders, their responsibility seemed to vanish faster than a bucket of original recipe. Was it a lack of critical thinking, sheer indifference, or a disdain for the art of customer interaction? The plot thickens.

These incidents beg the question: Are they aware they represent a global brand? Customers don't owe them a chicken dance; they're there to fuel the fast-food economy. Ignorance may be bliss, but in this context, it's downright scary.

What's Next?

So, what do we do about this? Is it a symptom of a larger societal ill? How do we reignite the flames of communication, consideration, and common sense? I leave you with these questions, pondering the state of our chicken-loving, communication-challenged world.

In the grand scheme of things, my quest for a simple chicken breast unveiled a deeper truth. Let's hope the next time I visit KFC, the staff has found their voices and, perhaps, my beloved chicken breast. Until then, stay crispy, my friends.

A Day of Discovery at Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur: Berjaya University College Study Tour 2023

A study tour to Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur on 23 November 2023 for Berjaya University College students.

We recently embarked on an exciting study tour to Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur, and what an incredible day it turned out to be! Our students from diverse programs, including culinary art, hospitality management, events and tourism management, and business studies, had the unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of this prestigious hotel. Join us as we recount the highlights of this enriching experience.

Upon our arrival, the Le Meridien team, led by General Manager Mr. Michael Delargy, Market Director of Human Resources Ms. Jaclyn Low, Learning & Development Manager Mr. Balachandran Girbakran, Executive Chef Antoine, and Assistant F&B Director Ms. Chrisleen Lee, warmly greeted us. Their hospitality set the tone for a day of discovery and inspiration.

The day kicked off with an insightful briefing on the hotel's history and the unique values that define the culture of Le Meridien. Then, the tour showed our students the hotel operation and facilities, including the front office, event hall, restaurants and the swimming pool. The students gained firsthand knowledge of the hotel operations and its functions. It was a behind-the-scenes look at the magic that makes Le Meridien a world-renowned brand in the hotel industry.

During the tour led by Ms. Chrisleen Lee, Assistant F&B Director, she shared her passion and the critical success factors that have defined her journey as a hotelier. Her motivational words left an indelible mark on our students, inspiring them as they contemplate their future careers in various industries.

The tour concluded on a high note with a fun pop quiz. Congratulations to Dinesh from the Diploma in Hospitality Management program for emerging as the winner! Mr. Michael and Ms. Jaclyn presented Dinesh with a special prize, adding a touch of excitement to an already memorable day.

As a delightful conclusion, Le Meridien treated us to a delicious lunch, allowing everyone to savour the culinary excellence that defines the hotel. To top it off, each participant went home with a thoughtful gift, a token of appreciation from our gracious hosts.

Our study tour to Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur was undeniably fruitful and inspiring. It provided our students with a unique insight into the world of hospitality and left them with valuable lessons to carry into their future endeavours. A heartfelt thank you to the entire Le Meridien team for opening their doors to us and making this day an unforgettable experience.

Stay tuned for more adventures and learning opportunities from us!

Maximizing Your Education: 5 Ways to Utilize ChatGPT for Academic Success

As an Artificial Intelligence (AI) language model, ChatGPT can be a valuable resource for students studying in higher education. Here are 5 main ways that a student can maximize the use of ChatGPT:

1. Research

ChatGPT can be used as a tool for research on a wide range of topics. The model can provide concise and relevant information on a topic of interest to a student.

As a student in higher education, there may be times when you need to conduct research for an assignment or project. ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for this purpose as it is capable of providing concise and relevant information on a wide range of topics.

For example, let's say you are researching a topic on climate change. You could ask ChatGPT to provide you with information on the causes and effects of climate change, current mitigation strategies, and potential future impacts. AI can provide you with relevant and up-to-date information on this topic from reputable sources, helping you to better understand the issue and develop your own arguments and ideas.

In addition, AI can also help you to find relevant research articles, books, and other resources on your topic of interest. For instance, you can ask ChatGPT for recommendations on books or articles related to your research question. This can save you time and effort in searching for relevant sources and help you to identify high-quality resources that you may not have found otherwise.

Using ChatGPT as a research tool can help you to gain a deeper understanding of your topic of interest and find high-quality sources to support your arguments and ideas.

2. Writing Assistance

ChatGPT can be used as a writing assistant to help students refine their writing skills. The model can provide suggestions for grammar and vocabulary, as well as help with sentence structure and organization.

Writing is an essential skill in higher education, and AI can help students refine their writing skills by providing writing assistance. The model can suggest alternative words or phrases help students improve their vocabulary and grammar. Additionally, ChatGPT can provide suggestions for sentence structure and organization to help students improve the flow and clarity of their writing.

 Students can use AI to check their writing for grammar and punctuation errors, as well as to identify areas where they may need to improve their writing. The model can also suggest ways to improve the overall structure of the writing and help students create a more coherent argument. Furthermore, ChatGPT can assist students in developing their critical thinking skills through the process of writing. The model can provide suggestions for alternative perspectives, help students to identify gaps in their arguments, and suggest ways to improve their reasoning.

 AI can be an excellent tool for students to refine their writing skills and enhance their critical thinking abilities. By using ChatGPT as a writing assistant, students can receive valuable feedback on their writing and develop their skills in a way that is tailored to their individual needs.

3. Study Help

ChatGPT can be used to supplement class materials and help students prepare for exams. The model can provide explanations of difficult concepts, examples, and practice problems.

By using ChatGPT as a study help tool, students can gain a deeper understanding of difficult concepts and prepare for exams more effectively. They can also receive immediate feedback on their understanding of a topic, allowing them to focus their efforts on areas where they may need more practice or study. Ultimately, this can lead to better academic performance and a more successful college experience.

Let's say a student is taking a marketing course and is struggling to understand the concept of market segmentation. They can use ChatGPT to ask for a concise and relevant explanation of the topic. The model can provide an overview of what market segmentation is, why it's important in marketing, and different methods of segmenting a market.

The student can also ask ChatGPT for examples of market segmentation in real-world scenarios. For instance, they can ask how a company like Nike segments its market and tailors its products to different consumer groups.

If the student is preparing for an exam, they can use ChatGPT to ask for practice problems related to market segmentation. The model can provide sample questions and answers, allowing the student to gauge their understanding of the topic and identify areas where they need more practice or study.

Overall, by using ChatGPT as a study help tool, the student can gain a deeper understanding of marketing concepts, prepare more effectively for exams, and ultimately achieve better academic performance in their marketing course.

 4. Language Practice

ChatGPT can be used to practice language skills. Students can use the model to improve their reading, writing, and speaking skills in various languages.

ChatGPT can be a great tool for students who are learning a new language. The model can provide assistance with grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. For example, a student who is learning English as a second language can use ChatGPT to practice reading and writing in English. The model can provide suggestions for how to structure sentences, offer alternative vocabulary choices, and provide explanations of idioms and expressions that may be confusing.

Additionally, ChatGPT can provide opportunities for students to practice speaking and listening skills in a foreign language. Students can ask the model to speak in the language they are learning, and then try to respond using the correct vocabulary and grammar. This can be a great way to improve pronunciation and comprehension skills.

ChatGPT can be a valuable resource for language learners, as it can provide personalized feedback and assistance in real-time.

5. Personal Development

ChatGPT can be used as a tool for personal development. Students can ask the model for advice on a wide range of topics, such as career development, goal setting, and mental health.

ChatGPT can be a valuable resource for students looking to develop personal skills and knowledge beyond academics. For example, students can ask the model for advice on developing effective study habits, managing their time and priorities, or improving their communication skills. 

In addition, students can seek guidance on topics related to mental health and well-being, such as managing stress, building resilience, and developing healthy coping mechanisms. The model can also provide information and resources on career development, including job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing tips, and interview preparation. 

By using ChatGPT as a tool for personal development, students can gain valuable insights and advice to help them succeed in all aspects of their lives.

Excited already? Although AI can do so much to assist students in their studies, it is important to be cautious of the following:

• Although ChatGPT is a powerful tool, it is important to remember that it is not infallible. Students should always double-check the information provided by ChatGPT before using it in their studies.
• ChatGPT can provide excellent research assistance, but students must be careful not to plagiarize any content. It is important to paraphrase and cite any information used in assignments and papers.
• While AI can be a valuable tool for students, it is important not to become too reliant on it. Students should still strive to develop their critical thinking skills and research abilities, as these will be valuable in their future careers.

So....to use or not to use? What say you?

Share you views with me.

The Power of Critical Thinking: Why It's Important and How to Develop Your Skills

Hey there, let me tell you about critical thinking! It's basically the superhero power of analyzing information objectively and making logical, evidence-based judgments. You get to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, consider different perspectives, and make well-reasoned conclusions. It's like thinking about thinking in a super smart and rational way so you can make informed decisions based on evidence and reason.

Why is critical thinking important? 

Let me count the ways! For starters, it helps you make better decisions by weighing the pros and cons and considering different options. It also improves your problem-solving skills by helping you identify, analyze, and solve problems in a structured and logical way. And let's not forget about the increased creativity and innovation that comes with exploring different ideas and perspectives. Plus, critical thinking helps you communicate more effectively by analyzing arguments, evaluating evidence, and identifying potential biases.

But watch out, without critical thinking, you could end up making some serious blunders. You might struggle with decision-making, and problem-solving, and be limited by preconceived ideas and biases. That could seriously hinder your ability to consider different perspectives and come up with creative solutions. You might even struggle to communicate effectively and end up in misunderstandings and miscommunications.

So, how can you develop your critical thinking skills? 

It takes time and practice, but it's totally worth it. Start by asking questions that challenge assumptions, evaluating evidence, and considering alternative perspectives. Learn to analyze arguments, identify logical fallacies, and assess different positions. Break down complex problems and look at them from different angles to find different approaches. With dedication and effort, anyone can improve their critical thinking skills and make more informed decisions.

And speaking of being narrow-minded, imagine someone who refuses to try new foods because they have preconceived ideas and biases about certain types of cuisine. That's like limiting yourself to a life of blandness and missing out on delicious opportunities. But if you use critical thinking to challenge your assumptions, you could develop a greater appreciation for a wider range of foods and experiences. Plus, it's way more fun to be open-minded and adventurous!

How to begin?

One easy way to start practising critical thinking is to ask yourself questions that challenge assumptions and encourage you to consider alternative perspectives. For example, when you encounter a new piece of information, ask yourself:

• What evidence supports this claim?
• Are there other possible explanations or viewpoints?
• What biases or assumptions might be influencing my understanding of this information?
• By consistently asking these types of questions, you can start to develop a more objective and evidence-based approach to evaluating information and making informed decisions.

Remember that critical thinking is a skill, and like any skill, it takes time and practice to develop. Don't be discouraged if it feels challenging or difficult at first. With dedication and effort, you can improve your ability to think critically and make more informed decisions. Each time you challenge assumptions, evaluate evidence and consider different perspectives, you are strengthening your critical thinking muscles. So keep at it, and remember that every step you take towards becoming a better critical thinker is a step towards a more informed and fulfilling life.

The Best Immune Response: Not Too Weak, Not Too Strong, But Just Right

This pandemic has taught me a very important lesson in life. Instead of trying to avoid it, why not be prepared to face it while we can! Yes, I had Covid-19 last month and now recovering from it. I just had symptoms like scratchy throat and nose block at night for a few days-can considered as mild symptoms.

However, I was having throat discomfort even until day 7 and was still feeling fatigued. I couldn't teach for long hours like before. Then, someone brought me a box of Wellous® Tigrox™ Imuglo, a botanical beverage of black elderberry, fucoidan, and mixed fruit juice. At first, I was kind of reluctant to try it because I thought I have to prepare it at home before consuming and I just don't like the hassle. Surprisingly, the Tigrox™ Imuglo is a ready-to-drink pre-mixed liquid packed in a sachet per serving - so convenient to bring around and consume, especially at the workplace. Also, the taste is not too sweet but tart-like and mineral-like flavor-kind of delicious and nutritious taste.

I started to take one sachet a day after meal for a week and the throat discomfort slowly goes off and I can feel more energetic throughout the day-no more fatigue like before. It seems the immunomodulation and anti-allergic functions from the Maitake Mushroom Mycelium extract and black elderberry can improve respiratory tract infection and enhances my immunity. Other benefits include improving resistance against allergies, supporting intestinal function, and also antioxidants. 

I am glad that now, all the symptoms are cleared and I am back in action as usual. Even after recovering from Covid-19, I continue to practice social distancing, wearing a mask, and washing my hands regularly in order to protect myself and others from the virus. Nonetheless, these are just preventive measures to avoid catching the virus. I realize that we really need something that can defend against viruses, something that can "balance" my immune responses to fight disease, infections, and viruses! I will continue to take Wellous® Tigrox™ Imuglo that can it give me all the essential nutrients I need in a day with just one pocket-size sachet. 

Moving forward, I think we all need to continue to live with viruses, bacteria, and parasites as the environment is getting polluted too. While we are being vaccinated and continue to follow the SOPs, it is more important to improve our health by protecting our immune system.  

#WellousMalaysia #个性化功能性食品

#PersonalisedFunctionalFood

WellousMalaysia

Wellous® Tigrox™ Imuglo

My Journal Publications

These are the few journal and conference publications I had during my tenure as an academician.

• Chiong, C.P. and Choe, K.H. (2020). “A study of factors influencing generation Y’s intention to visit shopping malls in Klang Valley, Malaysia”. BERJAYA Journal of Services & Management Vol. 14, Pp. 37-52  >Download PDF<

• Au Yong, A.Y. and Choe, K.H. (2018). “Factors affecting customer’s intention to adopt coalition loyalty program in Kuala Lumpur”. BERJAYA Journal of Services & Management Vol. 9, Pp. 3-9 >Download PDF<

• Choe, K.H. and Yap, C.Y. (2017). “Exploring Malaysian attendee attitude towards green practices in exhibitions”. Proceedings of the International Conference on Hospitality, Tourism, and Sports Management, Tokyo, Japan, 16th-18th August 2017. ISSN 2518-0797

• Shirleen, V. and Choe, K.H. (2016). “The effect of perceived justice on customer satisfaction in e-retailing service recovery strategy”. BERJAYA Journal of Services & Management Vol. 5, Pp. 37-5 >Download PDF<

• Thao, D.A. and Choe, K.H. (2015). “The impact of employee involvement on the affective organisational commitment in five-star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam”. BERJAYA Journal of Services & Management Vol. 4, Pp. 64-7 >Download PDF<

• Choe, K.H. (2015). “Bridging the employability gap between hotels and graduates: the immersion methodology”. BERJAYA Journal of Services & Management Vol. 3, Pp. 3-1 >Download PDF<

• Chin, S.H. & Choe, K.H. (2014). “The impact of loyalty program tools on retail customer satisfaction in Malaysia.” BERJAYA Journal of Services & Management Vol. 2, Pp. 68-80. >Download PDF<

• Choe, K.H., Arumugum V.M. & George, S. (2009) “The Berjaya Immersion Methodology: An Alternative Model of Learning in Higher Education.” Proceedings of the Global Higher Education Forum, Penang, Malaysia, 13th-16th December 2009.

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