Penang Esplanade seawall wins prestigious Unesco heritage award

 

GEORGE TOWN: Penang's Esplanade Seawall and Promenade project has gained international acclaim at the 2025 Unesco Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. 

The project received the New Design in Heritage Contexts award, along with Special Recognition for Sustainable Development. 

State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai shared the announcement via Facebook today, citing the jury's commendation of the project as a national benchmark for conservation and modern design. 

The seven-member international jury noted that the reimagining of the historic civic space incorporated an innovative hybrid of traditional and modern engineering to combat coastal degradation. 

"The design maintains form and function to enhance community well-being, improve access to the waterfront, and support environmental stewardship in response to climate change", the jury said. 

The new seawall features a wide promenade replicating its 19th-century typology, utilising traditional granite construction, a concealed sheet-pile toe, and rock revetment for erosion resistance.

A unique feature is a lower terrace that submerges during spring tides, exposing the original seawall near the Cenotaph War Memorial. 

"Under expert guidance, the enhancement of the Esplanade's historicity highlights the Outstanding Universal Value of the World Heritage property Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca. Its dual-structure, local materials, and stakeholder governance are studied as models across Malaysia," the jury added.

-nst online.

PATA highlights sustainable and inclusive tourism at World Tourism Conference 2025

 

PATA showcased its commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism at the World Tourism Day and World Tourism Conference 2025, held in Melaka, Malaysia, from September 27 to 29. 

The event was officiated by Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, deputy prime minister of Malaysia; Ab Rauf Yusoh, chief minister of Melaka; Tiong King Sing, minister of culture, arts and tourism Malaysia; and Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary general, UN Tourism. The conference, held under the theme Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, focused on tourism’s potential to drive economic, social and environmental progress. 

During the session People-Centred Tourism: Unlocking Opportunities through Education, Innovation and Investments, moderated by Antonio López de Ávila of UN Tourism, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid joined panellists Amran Hamzah, Phillip Seiji Vincent, David Bardolet and Aradhana Khowala to discuss how investment in human capital, particularly youth and women, can strengthen resilience, equity and future readiness in tourism. The panel also examined how targeted investment can foster entrepreneurship, accelerate digitalisation and support sustainable development across destinations. 

PATA continues to place sustainability and social responsibility at the centre of its work, supporting long-term transformation in destinations, businesses and communities across the Asia-Pacific through initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Its programmes cover food and plastic waste reduction, climate resilience, digital transformation and social inclusion, while also developing the skills of tourism stakeholders at all levels. 

The association recently launched a 2025 World Tourism Day campaign highlighting projects from members, partners and stakeholders that advance sustainable transformation through education, governance, innovation and climate action. 

Noor said: “As a proud UNESCO Heritage City, Melaka not only showcases its rich cultural legacy but also demonstrates how well-planned tourism infrastructure can deliver real benefits to local communities through thriving community-based tourism initiatives and successful home-stay programmes. 

“As always, PATA is honoured to contribute to critical discussions that are shaping the pathway toward a more sustainable and inclusive future for our industry and the communities it serves.”

-TTG Asia.

Taiwan-Sabah partnership aims to boost sustainable tourism

 

Five universities from Taiwan have formalised a partnership with four Sabah-based tourism associations to promote agro- and community-based tourism in the Malaysian state.

The collaboration was formalised with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Kota Kinabalu. It aims to promote sustainable tourism development through knowledge exchange, community engagement, and academic-industry cooperation. The MoU is also expected to support capacity-building among local stakeholders and contribute to long-term, values-driven tourism initiatives.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Sabah government and representatives of the Malaysia Talent Education and Industry-Academia Collaboration Association, who accompanied the Taiwanese delegation.

The participating Taiwanese institutions are Dayeh University, National Chi Nan University, Nan Kai University of Technology, Lee-Ming Institute of Technology, and the Taiwan Agro and Rural Tourism Association. Their Sabah counterparts include the Kiulu Tourism Association, Tambunan Tourism Association, Sabah Tenom Coffee Entrepreneurs Association, and the Tambatuon Village Women’s Community Association in Kota Belud.

The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) will facilitate the collaboration as part of its broader efforts to develop inclusive and sustainable tourism models.

STB chairman and assistant minister of tourism, culture and environment, Joniston Bangkuai, said the initiative aligns with the Sabah Maju Jaya development blueprint, which highlights agriculture and tourism as key economic drivers.

He noted that “agro-tourism plays a vital role in enhancing visitor experiences while directly empowering rural communities”, adding that STB has identified 51 agro-tourism products across Sabah and is piloting a digital data platform in Kiulu to guide rural tourism strategies.

-TTG Asia.

Malaysia pasaran pelancongan keempat paling lestari di Asia

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia muncul sebagai pasaran pelancongan keempat paling prihatin terhadap kelestarian di Asia, demikian menurut Tinjauan Pelancongan Lestari 2025 yang dilaksanakan Agoda. 

Menurut tinjauan yang dijalankan oleh platform pelancongan digital itu, hampir empat daripada lima pelancong Malaysia (80 peratus) mengambil kira faktor kelestarian dalam rancangan perjalanan mereka untuk 2025, melebihi purata keseluruhan pelancong Asia (68 peratus). 

"Pelancong Malaysia semakin mengutamakan kelestarian dengan memberi fokus kepada kesan positif terhadap komuniti serta pengalaman perjalanan yang bermakna. 

"Apabila ditanya mengenai sebab utama mereka memilih pelancongan lestari, lebih satu perempat responden (28 peratus) menyokong komuniti dan ekonomi tempatan yang turut menjadi faktor pendorong utama. Sementara itu, hampir satu daripada empat pelancong (24 peratus) merujuk kepada nilai dan kepercayaan peribadi, manakala peratusan yang sama (24 peratus) mementingkan keinginan untuk pelancongan yang autentik dan bermatlamat.

"Ini mencerminkan trend yang semakin berkembang ke arah perjalanan yang bukan sahaja bermakna tetapi juga memperkayakan pengalaman pelancong dan membawa manfaat kepada destinasi yang dikunjungi," demikian menurut Agoda. 

Tinjauan Pelancongan Lestari 2025 yang membabitkan lebih daripada 6,000 responden di 11 pasaran Asia, mengetengahkan landskap pelancongan lestari yang semakin berkembang di rantau ini, di mana pengalaman autentik, perjalanan bermatlamat dan pelancongan luar musim semakin mendapat perhatian.

Menurut tinjauan Agoda, ramai pelancong Malaysia kini membuat pilihan yang lebih bertanggungjawab untuk mengurangkan kesan terhadap alam sekitar dengan hampir satu perempat (24 peratus) memilih untuk melancong pada musim luar puncak dengan tujuan mengurangkan kesesakan. 

"Selain itu, 19 peratus memilih penginapan yang mempunyai pensijilan kelestarian, manakala 18 peratus secara aktif menyokong perniagaan berskala kecil dan sederhana serta usaha pemeliharaan budaya tempatan," katanya. 

Mengulas lanjut, Pengarah Negara Agoda bagi Malaysia dan Brunei, Fabian Teja berkata, dengan kelestarian menjadi fokus utama kempen Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026, ia adalah sesuatu yang amat memberangsangkan untuk melihat lebih ramai pelancong membuat pilihan yang bertanggungjawab. 

"Sungguh menggalakkan melihat semakin ramai pelancong Malaysia ingin memberikan impak positif, dan Agoda sentiasa bersedia untuk menyokong matlamat perjalanan mereka. 

"Menerusi Program Eco Deals kami, pelancong boleh menikmati diskaun hebat di tempat penginapan yang menyertai program ini sementara Agoda menyumbangkan AS$1 untuk membantu usaha pemuliharaan tempatan bagi setiap tempahan yang dibuat melalui program ini. 

"Kami teruja untuk membantu pelancong Malaysia meneroka dunia dengan kos yang lebih rendah, sambil memberi peluang kepada mereka untuk memulihara destinasi yang mereka lawati," katanya. 

Sejak pelancaran edisi 2025 baru-baru ini, program Eco Deals Agoda telah menawarkan diskaun sehingga 15 peratus di hotel yang mengambil bahagian di 10 buah pasaran Asia. 

Tahun ini menandakan penyertaan pertama Jepun dan Korea Selatan dalam Kempen Eco Deals yang memberikan lebih banyak peluang kepada pelancong yang menuju ke destinasi Asia untuk menyokong destinasi kegemaran mereka.

-Berita Harian Online.

Malaysian tourism professionals urge collaboration on sustainability efforts

 

From left: Eco-STEPS’ Kingston Khoo; The Habitat Foundation’s Justine Vaz; Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre’s Wong Siew Te and Batu Batu’s Cher Chua-Lassalvy discuss innovative approaches to sustainable tourism development; photo by Rachel AJ Lee

Leading figures in Malaysia’s sustainable tourism sector have sounded an urgent call for collective action to address environmental and social challenges while promoting responsible travel.

Speaking on the Sustainability Pioneers: Malaysian SMEs Driving Change panel at the ASEAN Tourism Conference on January 15, session moderator and founder and president of Eco-STEPS (Sustainable Tourism & Environmental Protection Society) Malaysia, Kingston Khoo, highlighted the slow global progress in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

To help Malaysia on its sustainability journey, Justine Vaz, executive director of The Habitat Foundation, and Cher Chua-Lassalvy, co-founder and managing director of Batu Batu, jointly established the Sustainable Tourism Malaysia network.

The Habitat Foundation is a charitable trust based in Penang. It influences biodiversity conservation at a national level and focuses on empowering local communities, enhancing their livelihoods, and promoting under-appreciated destinations. Its sister organisation under The Habitat Group is The Habitat Penang Hill, a rainforest park.

“The network that we formed comprises NGOs, government organisations, and tourism businesses. We help our network members communicate what they do, where they do it, and (strengthen) their visibility. We also do consumer education and help people to make better (environmental) choices,” said Vaz.

Vaz shared that the foundation is undertaking several projects in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026, including the development of new trails and an exhibition showcasing the region’s rich tin mining history in Perlis.

Meanwhile, Chua-Lassalvy shared her experience in transitioning Batu Batu – an eco-island located two hours from Johor Bahru – from traditional tourism to a regenerative model, aiming to create positive impacts on the environment and local communities while offering restorative and thought-provoking retreats. It was challenging, she shared, having to deal with problems such as overflowing sewage issues, oil spills that the waves carried in, and trash pollution.

She also encouraged the audience to create destination coordination groups, where stakeholders can discuss, share, negotiate, and find a sustainable way forward.

“This is one thing that the Sustainable Tourism Network does. The plan is to get everyone who is working in sustainable tourism to get together, share their knowledge and databases, so that the industry can progress,” she explained.

Wong Siew Te, CEO and founder, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, shared how wildlife conservation and nature-based tourism can be mutually beneficial. The centre generates revenue through responsible tourism, which in turn supports conservation efforts and improves the livelihoods of local communities.

“We need to nurture future generations to help protect our environment as much as possible,” he stressed.

Chua-Lassalvy advised the industry to listen to and learn from local communities, rather than impose external ideas. By respecting their knowledge and integrating their cultural heritage, truly authentic and sustainable tourism experiences can be developed.

Vaz said: “I’m currently working on establishing a new protected area in Malaysia, twice the size of Singapore. While the potential for eco-tourism that can benefit the seven villages living (deep in the forest) is significant, we must ensure that their livelihoods and cultural integrity are not compromised by rapid tourism development.”

-TTG Asia.

PATA inks MoUs with Sarawak Tourism Board, EATOF

 

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has signed new partnerships with Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) – to build closer cooperation and jointly promote sustainable tourism and resilience efforts in Sarawak – as well as with East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism Federation (EATOF) to establish an alliance for the activation of tourism in Asia-Pacific.

Both Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) were signed during the PATA Annual Summit 2024 (PAS 2024) on May 16 in Macao, China.

To ensure the success of sustainable tourism initiatives in Sarawak, PATA and STB will work together to enhance tourism resilience and sustainable tourism practices, introduce carbon offset projects in Sarawak, engage in joint advocacy and policy development activities, jointly organise events, and collaborate on green hospitality, urban sustainability and biodiversity conservation initiatives.

The first activity outlined in the MoU between STB and PATA is the Tourism Destination Resilience (TDR) capacity building programme, which took place in Kuching on May 20 and 21. Tourism officials received training on core modules of the TDR Programme, which covered topics such as risk assessment and management, crisis communication, adaptive capacity improvement, and diversification strategies, among others.

Following this, on May 23 and 24, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector will join a workshop on financial and digital skills, aiming to empower them with greater financial literacy and leverage digitalisation to enhance competitiveness.

Following the TDR Programme, PATA and STB will engage in further activities including a new series of workshops focused on ecotourism and community-based tourism development, waste management and reduction, and the implementation of sustainability certifications and carbon neutrality activities.

EATOF, an international tourism association that strives to develop a tourism community across the East Asia region and provide a solid forum to come together in unity, will join forces with PATA to boost local tourism through various businesses, including mutual collaboration in tourism, youth engagement, big data analysis, and more.

The MoU outlines the target of fostering mutual participation in significant events hosted by each association (namely the EATOF General Assembly and the PATA Annual Summit), sharing exemplary sustainable practices, and facilitating collaborative initiatives spanning from educational endeavours to regional tourism programmes.

Formed in 2000, EATOF currently has 10 member provinces in 10 countries participating, with the EATOF Secretariat located in Gangwon State, South Korea.

-TTG Asia.

KK resort recruits 'tree doctor' to manage organic garden

 

KOTA KINABALU: Almost every morning, Su Mon Fung spends at least four hours under the sun tending to the herb garden of a resort here.

When hotel patrons visit the site, the 36-year-old arborist from Beaufort lets them try the taste of fresh leaves plucked directly from the organic garden.

Since she joined the resort less than a year ago, the number of flowers and herbs has increased to more than 40 species, including lemongrass, basil, edible flowers and rosemary, for salads.

"There are also butterflies coming to our garden, which shows that the plants are healthy and thriving," said the Universiti Malaysia Sabah graduate, adding that the resort also successfully introduced stingless bees to the herb garden.

The three-decade-old garden has become one of the sites for Shangri-la Tanjung Aru resort to become more sustainable.

Every month, Su said the garden could provide up to 50kg for the resort's kitchens, resulting in savings of approximately RM1,000.

"Apart from fruit peels, the resort also sends back between 4kg and 8kg of eggshells for composting to fertilise our garden."

Recently, the resort received the Asean Green Hotel Standard award from the Asean Tourism Forum 2024 (ATF) held in Vientiane, Laos, in recognition of its sustainable tourism practices.

The Asean Green Hotel Standard fosters sustainable tourism through the adoption of environmentally friendly and energy conservation practices, as well as compiling, adapting, and creating tools and training to engage in Asean Green Hotel practices.

Other practices applied by the resort include using a food waste monitoring system to avoid oversupply of food, eliminating plastic mineral water bottles in the hotel shop, utilising solar-powered lights to illuminate the resort's car parks and gardens, collecting rainwater, and recycling plastic and paper.

In the guestrooms, the resort provides reusable glass bottles for storing drinking water, and the air conditioning automatically turns off when the room balcony doors are open.

The resort also conducts annual training for all employees and suppliers about its environmental policies. It also educates young guests and communities about marine conservation through the Clownfish Discovery Centre.

-nst online.

Embracing the marine wonders of Sabah's Tun Mustapha Park

 

photo: Tourism Malaysia

JUST off the northern shores of Sabah, the Tun Mustapha Park stands as a testament to Malaysia's commitment to marine conservation and sustainable tourism.

Spanning over 2.4 million acres across the Kudat, Pitas, and Kota Marudu districts, this marine sanctuary encompasses over 50 islands and islets, making it not only Malaysia's largest marine protected area (MPA) but also a vital haven for a myriad of marine life.

Established in 2016 after years of meticulous planning and collaboration, Tun Mustapha Park serves as a prime example of how concerted efforts can lead to the preservation of our planet's precious natural resources.

This marine park is a stronghold for biodiversity, hosting more than 250 coral species and 300 fish species, alongside endangered creatures like green turtles and dugongs.

It also protects vital ecosystems such as seagrass beds and mangrove forests, essential for the survival of numerous species and for maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

One of the unique aspects of Tun Mustapha Park is its approach to fishing. Recognising the dependency of over 80,000 local community members on the sea for their livelihoods, the park has designated zones where sustainable fishing practices are allowed.

This innovative management ensures the long-term sustainability of marine resources while supporting the economic well-being of the local populations.

But Tun Mustapha Park isn't just a conservation success story; it's also a beacon for sustainable tourism. Visitors to the park can engage in a variety of eco-friendly activities, from staying in homestays run by local families to participating in mangrove tours and turtle conservation efforts.

These activities not only offer unique experiences to eco-conscious travellers but also bring economic benefits to the local communities, highlighting the potential for conservation and community development to go hand in hand.

-nst online.

UN Tourism opens calls for this year’s Best Tourism Villages

 

The UN Best Tourism Village initiative recognises tourism villages that are able to drive rural development and local well-being; Japan’s Hakuba Valley, one of 2023’s winners, pictured

UN Tourism, rebranded from UNWTO, has opened applications for the 2024 edition of its Best Tourism Villages initiative.

The initiative, launched in 2021, is one of the pillars of the organisation’s Tourism for Rural Development Programme. It recognises those rural destinations where tourism is being effectively embraced as an opportunity or as a tool for sustainable growth or for preserving unique cultural and natural heritage.

Over the past three successful editions, UN Tourism received almost 600 applications from nearly 100 countries.

Currently, the UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages Network brings together 186 members globally, comprising 129 recognised as Best Tourism Villages and 57 villages taking part in the Upgrade Programme. Together, they represent 55 countries across five world regions.

Applications are evaluated based on nine areas: Cultural and Natural Resources; Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources; Economic Sustainability; Social Sustainability; Environmental Sustainability; Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration; Governance and Prioritisation of Tourism; Infrastructure and Connectivity; and Health, Safety and Security.

Besides recognising tourism villages that meet the nine requirements, the initiative also includes an Upgrade Programme that supports applicants that do not fully meet the criteria and helps address the gaps identified in the evaluation process, as well as the UN Tourism Network which brings together representatives of both recognised villages and those in the Upgrade Programme together to exchange experiences, good practices and opportunities.

UN Tourism’s Members States can present up to eight villages through their National Tourism Administrations and via this form.

Applications will close on April 24 and the winners will be announced in 3Q2024.

-TTG Asia.

Malaysia Participates In ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 To Promote Eco-Tourism, Sustainability And Community Involvement

 

VIENTIANE, 24 January 2024 – Malaysia’s delegation to Southeast Asia’s largest tourism trade event of ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF2024) this year comes with a mission to promote sustainable development, increasing and stimulating ecotourism in the region, best practices for sustainability, preserving existing ecotourism and community involvement.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a cultural dance by Istana Budaya to officiate Malaysia’s booth is led by Dato’ Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, Secretary General of Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, accompanied by Dato' Dr. Ammar Bin Abd. Ghapar, Director General of Tourism Malaysia; and H.E. Ambassador Edi Irwan bin Mahmud, Malaysian Ambassador to the Lao PDR.

Joining the Malaysian delegation are representatives from Perak Tourism, Melaka Tourism and Johor Tourism as well as local dignitaries, excellencies, media, and tourism industry players. Malaysia will officially become the next host for the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025, marking its return to hosting ATF since the last event in 2014 in Kuching, Sarawak.

Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia will attend the 27th ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting, and the 44th ASEAN Plus Three Tourism Meeting. The official opening ceremony of ATF 2024 is set for 24th January 2024 by H.E. Prime Minister of Laos Sonexay Siphandone at the Don Chan Palace Hotel, Sisattanak District, Vientiane.

ATF 2024 will cover two concurrent events, namely the Ministerial and Bilateral meetings in Landmark Hotel, while the TRAVEX is in the Lao ITEC Exhibition Hall which serves as a platform for suppliers of ASEAN tourism products and services as well as qualified buyers from around the world to meet through pre-scheduled appointments.

For TRAVEX, Malaysia will depict eco-tourism and sustainable attractions in tandem with the modern cities that Malaysian tourism has to offer including Malaysian traditional handicrafts by KARYANEKA at booth number A4 in Lao ITECC Exhibition Centre, Vientiane.

“On this note, Malaysia congratulates Laos for successfully organising ATF2024. We hope that the meeting and travel fair will help in boosting the ASEAN tourism business and bilateral understanding at the highest level,” said Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Exploring the natural wonders of Taman Negara: An eco-tourism adventure

 

Stretching across three states – Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu – Taman Negara is one of the world's oldest rainforests, offering an unparalleled eco-tourism experience. Spanning over 4,300 square kilometres, this national park is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

THE ANCIENT RAINFOREST

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Taman Negara's age, estimated at 130 million years, makes it a living museum of natural history. The dense canopy of towering trees, some of which are hundreds of years old, creates a vibrant ecosystem that supports a vast array of plant and animal species.

BIODIVERSITY HAVEN

The park is renowned for its biodiversity. It's home to rare and endangered species like the Malayan tiger, Asian elephant, and exotic birds like the hornbills. Nature trails like the Canopy Walkway offer visitors a unique perspective to explore this rich biodiversity.

RIVER SAFARIS AND CAVE EXPLORATIONS

The Tembeling River, which flows through Taman Negara, provides an excellent opportunity for river safaris. Visitors can explore caves like Gua Telinga, which is known for its unique rock formations and resident bats.

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Taman Negara is not just a tourist destination; it's a model for sustainable tourism. The park's management ensures that the natural environment is preserved while allowing visitors to enjoy and learn from the rainforest.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Visitors to Taman Negara can also immerse themselves in the local culture. The Orang Asli, the indigenous people of Peninsular Malaysia, offer insights into their traditional way of life, closely tied to the rainforest.

-nst online.

Sabah natural beauty, wildlife fascinates UK travel YouTuber

 

British travel YouTuber Karl Watson (standing, 6th left) with his followers and STB officers who hosted the dinner. - Pic courtesy of STB.

KOTA KINABALU: Karl Watson, a British travel YouTuber has embarked on an 11-day tour to explore the nature and wildlife of Sabah.

He was joined by 15 followers, among them from the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Czech Republic, Australia and Malta.

Watson has been creating travel documentaries for 10 years with over 227,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel.

He partnered with a travel company to organise comprehensive bespoke group excursions worldwide.

The partnership initiative allows Watson to pick his favourite destination, customise the itinerary to be more sustainable, and sell it on his website and YouTube.

"We organised the first customised group tour to Morocco since it is closer to Europe, less expensive, and exotic.

"When it came to choosing a second destination for a bespoke group tour, I knew I wanted some place very different from the cities, marketplaces, and culture of Morocco.

"I've been considering a trip to Borneo because I like nature.

"So, I did my research, and said to myself and decided to go on a full nature wildlife adventure," he explained.

"I came for the wildlife but was won over by the people.

"This trip is a perfect introduction to Borneo, and I would like to come back to explore Sabah deeper, especially the national parks and the off-the-beaten paths," he said.

He also admired the rich cultural heritage and the friendly multi-ethnic population of Sabah.

During the journey from April 3 to 14, the group scaled Mount Kinabalu, went on a river cruise down the Kinabatangan River, and explored Sandakan to learn about conservation efforts at the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre as well as Selingan Turtle Island, among others.

Captivated by Sabah's beauty and wildlife, Watson expresses his desire to return to explore the national parks and off-the-beaten paths in the future.

The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) hosted a Ramadan dinner for the group where they were able to try local delicacies and were delighted by the traditional dance performance.

-nst online.

ATM 2023 to shape the future of sustainable tourism

 

The 30th edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from May 1 to 4 with travel professionals and policymakers from across the globe coming together to explore how the tourism sector is working to drive decarbonisation.

The four-day event will feature over 150 speakers across 63 sessions, with ministers from the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Jamaica and Spain to join a host of senior figures from the private sector to showcase sustainable innovations, share knowledge and best practice, and explore opportunities and challenges along the road to net zero.

The 30th edition will “address one of the most significant challenges facing the sector, in line with our theme of Working Towards Net Zero”, commented Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME, ATM.

“Increased participation in this year’s show not only reflects the seriousness with which global tourism professionals and policymakers are taking sustainability, but also rising demand for leisure and business travel across the Middle East and beyond.”

Exhibitor participation will be 27 per cent higher than last year, with more than 2,000 exhibitors and beyond 34,000 attendees from over 150 countries.

The event will also host an array of regional policymakers, private-sector leaders, and speakers addressing sector-critical issues throughout the four days of the event.

Curtis added: “We look forward to learning how they are working to achieve net zero within their respective tourism markets, as our industry comes together to showcase the cutting-edge innovations and solutions that are driving the next generation of sustainable travel in the Middle East and beyond.”

To mark the 30th edition, Curtis and her team will unveil a dedicated sustainability pledge designed to reinforce commitment to the delivery of sustainable events and supplemented by a new playbook offering participants a framework within which to mitigate their environmental impact before, during and after the show – it also offers an operational guide for ATM as it works towards net zero by 2030.

In addition, this year’s show will also see the return of the ATM Travel Tech Stage, which will showcase how cutting-edge innovations – artificial intelligence, metaverse, cryptocurrency and big data – are driving environmentally responsible tourism.

Highlights of ATM 2023 include the brand-new Sustainability Hub, which will feature sessions dedicated to the latest sustainable travel trends and innovations; the ATM 2023 Start-up Competition, an event that will see entrepreneurs go head-to-head in a ‘Sustainable Tech Pitch Battle’; the International Luxury Travel Market Arabia; and sessions from the International Tourism & Investment Conference, the International Congress and Convention Association, and the Global Business Travel Association.

Other highlights include sessions focused on the key markets of India, China and the GCC, as well as informal speed networking.

-TTG Asia.

Malaysia With Its Sustainable Soul And The Ecotourism Offer Arrives In Milan For BIT 2023

 

MILAN, FEBRUARY 12, 2023 In pavilion 4, stand C82/A83, Tourism Malaysia delegation led by Mr Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, Director of Tourism Malaysia Paris Office, and responsible for the markets of Italy, Spain and Portugal will host Malaysia Airlines, Berjaya Hotels & Resorts, The Taaras Redang, Lotus Asia Tours as co-exhibitors.

BIT is essential for Tourism Malaysia, in the framework of the activities aimed at the trade. It is a moment of openness and discussion with colleagues and partners. The aspiration is to be able to meet as many operators and people as possible to share new experiences and products that Malaysia offers in this new era of tourism after the pandemic.

After years of constant participation in the Tourism Malaysia event, it arrives in Milan on the strength of a well-defined post-Covid strategy focused on nature tourism, sustainable tourism and slow travel for those travellers interested in discovering this Southeast Asian country in the most authentic way.

Malaysia will highlight its “X factors” to encourage Italian tourists to travel and encourage travellers to embrace its new ways of doing tourism as an important social economic driver. In 2021, out of 15 million active employees in Malaysia, the tourism industry employs more than 3.5 million people in different sectors. 35.4 % are employed in the food & beverage sector, 33.6 % work in commerce and 17.6 % are directly related to in-country services used by tourists.

“Malaysia is a country full of diversity. It is one of the twelve most biologically diverse countries in the world with thousands of flora and fauna species. Nature is one of their symbols, which makes Malaysia a perfect country for sustainable tourism development. Many regions in the country offer an authentic ecotourism experience, such as the state of Sabah, with the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Sarawak and Mulu National Park. Malaysia is also a country full of culture, where living the community experience with their locals is possible in some areas thanks to the Malaysia Homestay Programme to support local communities. Not to be forgotten the inclusion of the Country among the 30 must-visit destinations in the annual Lonely Planet Best in Travel list. Kuala Lumpur is, in fact, among five other destinations in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2023: Eat Category”, Dato’ Zainuddin Abdul Wahab, the Director General of Tourism Malaysia said.

Malaysia offers a wide range of tourist attractions. Nature and culture are very significant for the tourism industry. Within the different natural attractions, it is possible experience numerous sports and adventure activities, such as kayak, hiking, zip line, rafting, and many more. The country is also a great destination for families travelling together, with excellent options for kids, such as bird watching at KL Bird Park, thrilling hikes at Sunway Lagoon theme park or water activities at Legoland.

Tourism Malaysia’s promotion campaign as such is a continuous effort to boost inbound tourism to a greater height in the hope to achieve 15.6 million international tourist arrivals with MYR 47.6 billion in tourism receipts for 2023.

Malaysia has received 14,998 Italian as of October 2022, which is an encouraging growth. August as the quintessential holiday month, saw the highest increase in arrivals to Malaysia with 5,182 tourists from Italy.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Kota Belud gibbon rehab centre to officially open on Saturday

 

A gibbon rehabilitation centre in Kota Belud is expected to be in operation this Saturday.
- Pic courtesy of Gibbon Conservation Society Website.

KOTA BELUD: The Borneo Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Borneo GReP) at Kiau village here will begin operations this Saturday.

The project will focus on rehabilitating two endangered species of gibbons – the North Bornean Gibbon (Hylobates funereus) and the Abott's Gray Gibbon (Hylobates abbotti).

Both singing primates species, categorised as endangered by the IUCN Red List, are important seed dispersers in Malaysia's tropical rainforest.

Gibbon Conservation Society (GCS) president Mariani Ramli or Bam, a Sabahan, stated that she was excited to start serving and caring for the wildlife in her home state.

"The project currently houses five North Bornean Gibbons (Hylobates funereus), who arrived on Jan 17. Most of these gibbons are former pets.

"Over the next few weeks, the Borneo GReP team will gather data on each individual gibbon to assess their psychological state and needs, in order to create a rehabilitation plan for each of them.

"Rehabilitation takes many years depending on each gibbon's experienced trauma and ability to relearn their natural behaviours.

"We hope that all five gibbons will be able to be released one day."

Borneo GReP will also be the first eco-edu tourism centre in Malaysia that opens its doors for primate research, tourism, job opportunities for locals.

For the last 10 years, Bam has been running the Malaya Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Malaya GReP), located in Raub, Pahang and focusing on the three gibbon species of Peninsular Malaysia - the Lar Gibbon, the Agile Gibbon and the Siamang.

Bam has won many awards and received many accreditations including being the only Malaysian member of the IUCN Section on Small Apes (Captive Care), winning the 2018 American Society of Primatologist's Conservationist Award in recognition of her exceptional work to protect primates in Malaysia, being acknowledged as Malaysia's Eco Champion by Jane Goodall, receiving the Edge's Inspiring Young Leader Award 2019, the Star Golden Heart Award 2022 and more.

On Saturday, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative minister and Kadamaian assemblyman Datuk Ewon Benedick and several key leaders are expected to attend the launch.

-nst online.

Kembalikan ‘aura’ Tasik Bera

 

BERA: Usaha membangunkan semula Kompleks Pelancongan Tasik Bera di sini termasuk usaha melindungi, memulihara ekosistem dan mengembalikan ‘aura’ tasik air tawar semula jadi terbesar negara tersebut perlu diserahkan kepada syarikat yang benar-benar berkemampuan dan mempunyai perancangan yang jelas.

Bercakap kepada Utusan Malaysia, Setiausaha Persatuan Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan Bera, Khairol Amin Mohd. Tahir berkata, ini kerana syarikat yang diberikan tanggungjawab memajukan Tasik Bera sebelum ini gagal melaksanakan tugasnya.

Katanya, impak kegagalan syarikat itu memberikan kesan buruk kepada imej Tasik Bera sebagai salah satu destinasi ekopelancongan istimewa flora dan fauna ternama negara.

“Sejak beberapa tahun lalu, Tasik Bera yang merupakan tasik semula jadi di kawasan Tanah Lembab Berkepentingan Antarabangsa (Ramsar) seolah-olah tiada dalam radar pelancongan negara.

“Oleh itu, Tourism Pahang yang memperlawa syarikat baharu perlu mengambil kira kemampuan dan keikhlasan pemaju untuk mengembalikan tarikan Tasik Bera,” katanya di sini semalam.

Mengulas lanjut, Khairol Amin berkata, sebagai anak jati Bera, beliau terkilan dengan ketidakmampuan pihak berkenaan memajukan Tasik Bera sebagai produk pelancongan berasaskan alam semula jadi.

Beliau berkata, jika dieksploitasi sepenuhnya keindahan semula jadi Tasik Bera bersama kehidupan masyarakat Orang Asli etnik Semelai di situ, ia mampu memberi impak ekonomi kepada kehidupan penduduk setempat.

Tambah beliau, Tourism Pahang difahamkan sedang memilih syarikat baharu untuk membangunkan Kompleks Pelancongan Tasik Bera.

“Persatuan bersedia bekerjasama dengan syarikat baharu demi kemajuan pelancongan Bera dan negeri Pahang.

“Persatuan Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan Daerah Bera akan mengadakan kunjungan hormat kepada Pengerusi Perpaduan, Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan Negeri, Leong Yu Man bagi membincangkan isu ini,” katanya.

Menurutnya, diharap Yu Man yang juga Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Triang selaku wakil rakyat dalam Parlimen Bera dapat berperanan bagi meletakkan Tasik Bera sebagai lokasi tarikan pelancongan negara.

Ini kerana ujarnya, Tasik Bera yang terletak di sempadan Daerah Rompin melalui Bandar Muadzam Shah mudah dikunjungi pelancong sekiranya rangkaian jalan raya dinaik taraf dan Tasik Bera mempunyai ‘aura’ untuk dikunjungi. Sebelum ini, Utusan Malaysia melaporkan kira-kira 450 hektar kawasan tasik itu diceroboh sejak dua tahun lalu mengakibatkan pelbagai jenis pokok balak terutama spesies merawan jantan ditebang, sekali menjejaskan ekosistem kawasan itu. 

-utusan online.

World Tourism Conference 2022: Tourism Futures Reimagined @ Sabah, Malaysia ( 28 ~ 30 November 2022 )

 

28 November 2022 – The World Tourism Conference (WTC) 2022 jointly organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia in partnership with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Sabah State Government runs from 28-30 November 2022 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Now in its 6th edition, this year’s conference brings together 1,000 delegates from more than 60 countries to reconnect and reassess tourism’s recovery in the aftermath of the worldwide pandemic. 

Alongside UNWTO officials, the conference features some 30 expert speakers comprising government policy makers, industry leaders and leading academicians in championing thought leadership on tourism futures and strategies driving tourism’s recovery and resilience in a post-pandemic world.

They include the State Minister, Ministry of Tourism Maldives, Dr. Ahmed Salih; Regional General Manager, Tourism Australia, Mr. Brent Anderson; Professor Emeritus, University of Wisconsin-Stout, USA, Prof. Jafar Jafari; Co-founder of Traveloka, Indonesia, Mr. Albert; and representatives from some of the world’s most innovative tourism-related companies such as Skift, Tripadvisor, TUI Group and Intrepid Travel. 

Local Malaysian experts making an appearance on the exclusive WTC 2022 stage include Prof. Dr. Amran Hamzah of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia; Mr. HC Chan, CEO of Sunway Malls & Theme Parks; Ms. Lau Yin May, Group Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, Malaysia Airlines; Mr. Yusno Yunos, CEO of Evenesis and two local Sabahans from Kota Kinabalu – Dr. Maklarin Lakim, Director of Sabah Parks; and Ms. Jessica Yew, Founder and Director of Sticky Rice Travel. 

One of the major highlights of the conference is the keynote presentation by distinguished speaker, Prof. Dato’ ChM. Dr. Mazlin Mokhtar of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network-Asia and Academy of Sciences Malaysia, who will for the first time bring a scientist’s perspective to the WTC, particularly in advancing a more sustainable tourism recovery which embraces energy transition and carbon neutrality. 

In her welcoming address, Datuk Hajah Saraya Arbi, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia acknowledged the tremendous impact of the worldwide pandemic and multiple crises which continue to disrupt the tourism sector’s growth trajectory. 

“However, there is also a great window of opportunity for us to rethink and reimagine tourism for the future which is more sustainable, inclusive and less susceptible to shocks,” she said. 

Despite challenging headwinds to the global economy in 2023 and beyond, experts have great expectations for the tourism sector, predicting continued pent-up demand alongside new growth opportunities and emerging niche markets arising from the pandemic. For instance, as tourism recovery gets underway, the boundaries between work, home, leisure and travel become increasingly blurred, requiring greater cross-collaboration between tourism and transport, health, security, cities and urban systems towards greater liveability and quality of life for both visitors and residents alike. 

“These are just some of the exciting new prospects that will be explored during the 2-day conference. Therefore, I hope the chosen theme of “Tourism Futures Reimagined” will inspire deep insights on the challenges, opportunities, trends and forecasts shaping the future of the industry,” Saraya concluded.

-MOTAC.

Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Hospitality rises in Langkawi

 

From left: Tourism Productivity Nexus’ Rohizam Md Yusoff, United Nations Development Programme’s Niloy Banerjee, Anthony Wong, Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners’ Shaharuddin M Saaid, and Langkawi Development Authority’s Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari

A green-certified resort on Langkawi Island, Cottage By The Sea by Frangipani Langkawi, has recently established itself as the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Hospitality, with support from Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

Owner and operator, Anthony Wong, has developed an efficient system to clean polluted water, including raw sewage and waste cooking oil into potable water in four days, as well as desalination using a special bio-engineered constructed wetland – all without using any energy.

This system has been recognised by the government of Malaysia and is included in the 12th Malaysia Plan.

Wong is also a consultant for an ongoing water treatment project in the tourist hubs of Pantai Tengah and part of Pantai Chenang. Funded by the state government to treat wastewater, the hubs are deploying the same system Wong has developed.

Wong shared: “Access to clean water is a perennial issue with islands all over the world. We are ready and willing to share our know-how on creating clean potable water with governments in South-east Asia and elsewhere, as well as with the private sector and non-governmental organisations.”

Wong has also developed a train-the-trainers programme, and intends to reach out to ASEAN Tourism Association to send interested members for training.

The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Hospitality was recently launched at the Sustainable Hotels in the Tropics: The How of achieving the UN 17 SDG & Climate Change, Circular Economy, Sustainability, Water & Food Security conference.

At the conference, Wong also launched his publication documenting over 200 green practices that have been implemented at the resort. Sustainability measures have been deployed throughout the resort, from the rooms, restaurants, landscape and facilities that include a fully-operational organic farm.

According to Wong, Cottage By The Sea by Frangipani Langkawi saves over 30 per cent of operational costs through these sustainable practices.

Conference attendees, including UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network vice-president for Asia, Woo Wing Thye, representatives from LADA, academia, hoteliers and non-governmental organisations were also taken on a guided tour to see for themselves the green practices implemented at the resort.

-TTG Asia.

Yuran masuk taman, pulau di Sabah akan dinaikkan

 

MAKLARIN Lakim (empat kiri) bersama pegawai kanan TTS dan tetamu jemputan memotong kek sempena sambutan ulang tahun Taman Tun Mustapha di Kudat baru-baru ini.

KUDAT: Yuran kemasukan ke taman dan pulau di bawah pengurusan Taman-Taman Sabah (TTS) akan dinaikkan dalam masa terdekat.

Pengarah TTS, Dr. Maklarin Lakim berkata, yuran kemasukan ke taman dan pulau di bawah TTS tidak pernah disemak secara menyeluruh sejak 20 tahun lalu jadi, sudah tiba masanya untuk kadar yuran ini disemak semula.

“Kos penyelenggaraan kita meningkat dari hari ke hari namun, kutipan yuran itu tidak lagi mampu menampung kos pemuliharaan yang tinggi.

“Ada keperluan untuk meningkatkan kutipan melalui penjualan tiket masuk selaras dengan keadaan semasa agar kutipan hasil kita mampu menampung kos pemuliharaan dan penjagaan taman.

“Sekarang tidak seimbang kerana kita banyak bergantung kepada subsidi kerajaan negeri untuk menampung kos pemuliharaan disebabkan hasil yang dikutip tidak mencukupi,” katanya semasa sambutan ulang tahun keenam Taman Tun Mustapha baru-baru ini.

Kadar kenaikan yuran itu akan diumumkan oleh Menteri Pelancongan, Kebudayaan dan Alam Sekitar Datuk Jafry Ariffin dalam masa terdekat.

Menurut beliau, sebahagian peralatan di kawasan pelancongan di bawah pengurusan TTS perlu dikenakan sewa namun, disebabkan tiada semakan yuran selama 20 tahun ini maka, perkara berkaitan kadar sewa juga terlepas pandang.

“Apa yang sepatutnya kita kenakan sewa namun, kita berikan secara percuma dan ia tidak wajar kerana bagi orang luar, apa yang kita ada di Sabah ini sesuatu yang hebat dan unik jadi, ia harus terus dipelihara. Ini antara perkara yang kita terlepas pandang,” katanya.

Itu sebabnya, TTS telah mengemukakan hasil semakan menyeluruh pada tahun lepas kepada Kementerian Pelancongan, Kebudayaan dan Alam Sekitar.

Pada masa ini, TTS mempunyai sembilan taman termasuk enam taman marin dan tiga di daratan. Secara keseluruhan, ia menempatkan 24 produk pelancongan yang boleh dilawat dan dikunjungi oleh pelancong tempatan dan luar negara.

Dalam 24 produk pelancongan itu, terdapat juga produk-produk sampingan yang ditawarkan seperti di Taman Marin Tun Sakaran dan Taman Pulau Sipadan di Semporna yang menawarkan aktiviti selam skuba.

Begitu juga di Taman Tunku Abdul Rahman (TTAR) yang menawarkan aktiviti selam skuba serta aktiviti pendakian Gunung Kinabalu di Taman Negara Kinabalu.

-utusan online.

The Official Sabah Parks Website - Home

Think City to boost cultural tourism

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's northern region is rich in history and has the potential to grow into a sustainable cultural destination.

Think City Sdn Bhd managing director Hamdan Abdul Majeed said Malaysia sits at the confluence of history and geography, as evidenced by the oldest prehistoric settlement in the world after Africa, signifying two million years of human evolution.

"In addition, the archaeological sites of Lembah Bujang and Sungai Batu highlight evidence of the earliest human settlement in Southeast Asia.

"This promises great potential for Malaysia to be enhanced as an international archaeological heritage destination.

"The possibility of new discoveries and opportunities to showcase this historic site will give initial focus to Lenggong, Kuala Kangsar and Taiping," he said during an interview with the New Straits Times and Harian Metro recently.

Think City is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Bhd.

On April 11, Think City announced that it had allocated RM10 million to support culture-based economic development in the northern Malaysia region, collaborating with the Finance Ministry as part of the Budget 2022 initiative.

Hamdan said Think City has identified potential nodes in the northern region to enhance culture-based experiences and will support grantees who can deepen and diversify visitors' journeys and broaden the public's understanding of the region's cultural significance via the Cultural Economy Catalytic Grants Programme.

Under the Cultural Economy Catalytic Grants Programme, culture-based economic development would leverage Malaysia's archaeological heritage by regenerating socio-economic growth and boosting the community's cultural, economic and social capital development.

The programme aimed to achieve its aspiration in capacity building and advocacy, demonstration, and content creation.

Think City is an impact organisation established in 2009 to create more sustainable and equitable places for the benefit of all.

The company's knowledge, skills and strategies focus on urban solutions, the environment, social communities, and the cultural economy.

-nst online.