Recent times saw Macao open up its 40-year long monopolised gaming sector to attract foreign investors who are expected to redefine the gaming industry and expand the tourism market base. This speaks volumes for the increasing importance of the tourism industry in Macao and the determination of the government to develop this strategic sector. Being a public institution in Macao offering tertiary education programmes in tourism and hospitality, the Institute is committed to developing a pool of high caliber professionals to answer to the growing demands of the industry. To achieve this, the Institute recognises the need to establish a sound research base because strong research is the key to the enhancement and updating of knowledge that is central to human resource development.