Shatec closure marks setback for Singapore’s hospitality workforce development

Shatec, a Singapore institution that has trained hospitality professionals for over four decades, is winding down its operations, a local Chinese-language newspaper Lianhe Zaobao has reported.

According to the report, operations have gradually ceased since April 2025, with courses expected to be discontinued by 1Q2026. At this point, TTG Asia understands that Shatec is no longer accepting new students. The institute’s main Bukit Batok campus building was put up for sale in May 2025 for S$18 million (US$14.1 million), while the Orchard campus – open for only a year – closed at the end of June 2025.

Shatec’s departure creates a gap in the hospitality industry; Shatec’s campus in Bukit Batok, pictured

The official statement shared with TTG Asia from Loh Lik Peng, chairman of the Shatec Board, stated: “Shatec is currently in the early stages of reviewing its long-term plans. The sale of the building is part of Shatec’s asset management strategy. As the review is still ongoing, we are unable to provide further comments.”

The closure of Shatec is a setback to Singapore’s tourism and hospitality industry, particularly given the country’s existing struggles to attract and retain talent.

When approached for a comment, Singapore Tourism Board’s (STB) executive director, hospitality and tourism talent, Rachel Loh, told TTG Asia that STB is aware of Shatec’s plans, adding that the existing batch of pre-employment training students are currently completing the courses.

Loh pointed out: “Singapore’s tourism sector continues to be well-supported by numerous established training providers. These include Continuing Education Training Centres such as Republic Polytechnic and Temasek Polytechnic; and various Workforce Skills Qualifications-accredited training organisations such as NTUC LearningHub, and TMC Academy.

“STB remains committed to supporting the tourism sector’s training needs to ensure Singapore maintains its productivity and competitiveness as a leading destination.”

Established in 1983 by the Singapore Hotel Association, Shatec has graduated approximately 40,000 individuals.

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