Tourism Malaysia Hosts Malaysian Luncheon In Cebu In Conjunction With The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026

 

CEBU, PHILIPPINES — YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), officially launched The Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) Luncheon: A Taste of Truly Asia today at the Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026. 

Aimed at attracting more visitors from the Philippines, the wider ASEAN region, and beyond, Tourism Malaysia hosted the luncheon as a launchpad for Visit Malaysia 2026. The occasion provided an exclusive opportunity for international buyers and media representatives to savour the authentic flavours of Malaysian cuisine. 

The occassion also showcased Malaysia’s vibrant cultural heritage. Key attractions included live Nyonya beaded shoemaking demonstrations, Teh Tarik performances, and food sampling featuring Laksa Sarawak, Laksa Johor, and Kuih Nyonya, alongside traditional Gambus performances celebrating the nation’s rich traditions and diverse travel experiences. 

In addition, Tourism Malaysia is organising a Food and Culture Promotion from 27 to 30 January 2026 at the Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, offerings residents of Cebu and surrounding areas a taste of Malaysia’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and celebrated culinary delights. 

In conjunction with VM2026, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) welcomes collaboration with both domestic and international industry players. Malaysia’s tourism industry continues to demonstrate strong growth, with international visitor arrivals reaching 42,196,892 throughout 2025, representing a 11.2 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. Notably, Malaysia welcomed 613,338 visitors from the Philippines during this period, marking a 7.3 per cent growth from 2024, reflecting the rising interest in Malaysia as a premier travel destination ahead of VM2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

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.

Malaysia Airlines and Firefly Named Official Airline Partners for The ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX)

 

Malaysia Airlines and Firefly have been appointed as official airline partners for the ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX). A key component of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025, TRAVEX serves as a business platform connecting ASEAN buyers and sellers, showcasing a diverse range of destination products and services. The event is scheduled to take place from 15 to 18 January 2025 at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre, Malaysia. 

As official airline partners, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly will offer seamless travel solutions for delegates attending ATF 2025 and TRAVEX, including buyers and media representatives. By offering extensive connectivity across domestic and international routes, both airlines will ensure convenient access to Johor, Malaysia – the host destination for this prestigious event. The collaboration underscores a commitment to promoting ASEAN as a unified travel destination while showcasing the service and hospitality that define the travel experience with Malaysia Airlines and Firefly. Malaysia Airlines will showcase the essence of ‘Malaysian Hospitality’, while Firefly will complement this effort by offering connectivity across domestic and regional destinations, supporting accessibility for the event. 

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group, said, “Malaysia Airlines and Firefly are honoured to be the official airline partners for TRAVEX 2025. This collaboration underscores a commitment to enhancing connectivity across ASEAN and beyond, ensuring seamless and efficient travel for delegates. By providing exceptional service and culturally immersive travel experiences, Malaysia Airlines continues to strengthen its role as the gateway to Malaysia and beyond for global travellers.” 

“ATF 2025 serves as a vital platform for shaping a vibrant and sustainable future for ASEAN’s tourism industry,” said Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. “This forum offers an opportunity to showcase Southeast Asia’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and inspiring stories, captivating travellers from around the world. Malaysia is honoured to host this prestigious event, and with the support of Malaysia Airlines and Firefly, we aim to ensure seamless connectivity and exceptional experiences for all attendees.” 

Organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, ATF 2025, under the theme “UNITY IN MOTION: SHAPING ASEAN’S TOURISM TOMORROW,” aims to unite leaders from ASEAN nations to drive sustainable tourism and digital transformation across the region. As official airline partners for TRAVEX, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly are committed to supporting the forum’s vision of a thriving and sustainable ASEAN tourism industry. Both airlines will provide seamless travel solutions for delegates, including ministers of tourism, government representatives, corporate leaders, and media from across the region. 

Additionally, to encourage travellers to rediscover the joy of exploration, immerse themselves in diverse cultures, and create unforgettable experiences, Malaysia Airlines recently launched its global “Time For” travel campaign happening from now until 22 January 2025, inviting travellers worldwide to make 2025 a year of memorable journeys. For more information and to book your next holiday, visit the official Malaysia Airlines website at www.malaysiaairlines.com or mobile app to get the latest information and promotions conveniently at your fingertips anytime and anywhere.

-Malaysia Airlines.

ASEAN Tourism Conference 2025 to tackle multiple issues shaping travel and tourism businesses

 

From left: Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s Randy Durban, Asian Development Bank’s Jong Woo Kang, Malaysia Budget & Business Hotel Association’s Sri Ganesh Michiel, and Batu Batu’s Cher Chua-Lassalvy

The annual ASEAN Tourism Conference (ATC), to be held later this month in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum and ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) in Johor, Malaysia, has lined up several influential travel and tourism industry leaders who will lead discussions on issues core to the business today and tomorrow. Sessions will focus on sustainability, the role of online travel agencies, video platforms, cross-regional tourism exchanges, AI, and more.

ATC 2025 will open on January 15 with the session, Charting Tourism for ASEAN: Trends Defining the Next Decade. It will be presented by Randy Durban, CEO, Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

This will be followed by Sustainability Pioneers: Malaysian SMEs Driving Change, with speakers Justine Vaz, executive director, The Habitat Foundation; Cher Chua-Lassalvy, co-founder and managing director, Batu Batu; and Wong Siew Te, CEO and founder, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.

Other prolific speakers and moderators include Jong Woo Kang, director for regional cooperation and integration, economic research and development impact department, Asian Development Bank; Sri Ganesh Michiel, national president, Malaysia Budget & Business Hotel Association; Amelia Peng I-Mei, head of brand partnerships Malaysia, TikTok; and Kingston Khoo, president, Eco-STEPS.

Commenting on ATC’s line-up, Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, president of the ASEAN Tourism Association, more commonly known as ASEANTA, said: “After much thought, we’ve focused on topics that we believe are the most relevant to the ASEAN tourism industry – not only right now, in 2025, but also for the next decade. Technology and sustainability are going to be the two forces dominating the shape of the industry.”

He also told TTG Asia: “We’ve doubled down on those two topics in particular for ATC 2025, ensuring that there is not only a high-level discussion on them with inspirational content, but also practical workshops, with a session focusing on AI, as well as actionable steps to embark on sustainability – all the while, with a view to how SMEs, who are the backbone of our industry, can apply these.

“We hope that when the audience goes home, they are inspired to start taking steps on their sustainability journey, as well as feel more confident in trying out new techniques that they can use to harness the power of technologies.”

ATC 2025 will stretch across January 15 and 16, and will be held at Persada Johor International Convention Centre.

Programming for this year’s ATC is coordinated by Hannah Pearson, director of Pear Anderson, a research and sales representation tourism consultancy.

-TTG Asia.

Tourism forum ideal to promote state

 

THE ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), which will be held in Johor Baru in January next year, is a great platform for the state government to promote Visit Johor Year 2026 (VJY2026).

Established in 1981, ATF is a cooperative regional effort to promote ASEAN as one tourism destination.

Malaysian Association of Travel and Tour Agents (MATTA) Johor chairman Kathryn Lee said the association would work together with the relevant parties to attract more tourists to Johor.

“We have less than two years to start planning and to ensure the success of VJY2026,” she said.

Lee said she hoped Johor MATTA could meet with Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who is now in charge of the tourism portfolio, and Tourism Johor to discuss VJY2026 matters.

“We have submitted our proposal to the state government on ways to further develop, strengthen and position the state’s tourism sector.”

Lee said the suggestions include having more international direct flights to Senai International Airport, especially from countries in the region.

“China is a big market. We can attract more tourists from the country if we have direct flights from other Chinese cities besides Guangzhou, to Johor Baru.”

Lee said Chinese tourists from cities other than Guangzhou who were planning to visit Johor, have to fly to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport or Singapore’s Changi Airport.

“Tourism involves inbound and outbound tourists. Johor needs to attract more inbound visitors especially from countries in the region.”

Lee said the Johor Baru-Haikou direct charter flights that started on April 24, were popular with Malaysians flying from the state to Haikou in Hainan, China. She said the focus should be on agro-tourism and shopping.

“Chinese tourists love durians and ours are the best in the world.

“Johor, as the country’s main producer of the fruits, is in a good position to attract them.”

Next year’s ATF is set for Jan 19 to 25.

-thestar online.

Johor to host ASEAN Tourism Forum in 2025

 

JOHOR BARU: The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) will be hosted by Johor in 2025, says Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

He thanked the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry for choosing Forest City as the venue for the event, set for Jan 19 until Jan 25 next year.

"During minister Datuk Tiong King Sing’s visit to Johor, we discussed the prestigious event, which will involve all tourism ministers in the Asean region, with the addition of China," he said in a Facebook post on Sunday (March 31).

Established in 1981, ATF is a cooperative regional effort to promote Asean as one tourism destination.

Each year, the hosting of ATF was rotated among the 10 Asean member countries; this year’s event was held in Vientiane, Laos from Jan 22 to Jan 27.

Onn Hafiz added that he and Tiong’s entourage also went through the state’s plans and direction for the upcoming Visit Johor Year 2026 where 12 million tourism arrivals were targeted.

A total of RM67.6mil had also been set aside under the state budget for 2024 to improve Johor’s tourism infrastructure, he said.

He added that other plans and efforts include organising more international-level tourism events and hoped that the cooperation between Johor and the federal tourism agencies could place the state among the top tourism destinations in Malaysia.

"This is an important initiative to ensure Johor’s readiness to receive tourists and visitors to make Visit Johor Year 2026 a success," he said.

-thestar online.

Tourism Selangor extending sales mission to Laos to hit 5.6 million tourist target for this year

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism Selangor took a positive step towards realising its target of getting 5.6 million tourists to the state this year by taking part in the Asean Tourism Forum (ATF) in Laos recently.

The forum, from Jan 22 to 26, was attended by key global tourism industry players and aimed to enhance tourist inflow to Asean countries.

Tourism Selangor utilised this opportunity to showcase its iconic tourism products, such as the Gombak Hulu Langat Geopark, Jungle School Gombak, Quartz Ridge Gombak, Splash Mania, Discovery Park, Paya Indah Wetlands, Sky Mirror, and FunPark, focusing on ecotourism and theme park attractions.

These were presented to over 400 hosted buyers and international sellers.

During the ATF, three tourism products in Selangor were honoured with the prestigious Asean Tourism Standard (2024-2026). The Wyndham Acmar Klang and Sunway Resort Hotel received the Asean Mice (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) Venue Standard in the Meeting Room category, while Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC) was recognised in the Exhibition Venue category.

As part of its strategic approach, Tourism Selangor in a statement said it aims to attract the interest of specific countries for targeted tourism experiences, such as Indonesia for medical tourism, Brunei for shopping attractions, and Singapore for gastronomy and ecotourism.

"Asean countries have played a pivotal role in Selangor's tourism sector, with 351,079 tourists visiting in 2022 and 241,875 tourists in Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 of 2023 from countries including Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.

"Tourism Selangor has also facilitated impactful business-to-business (B2B) sessions in collaboration with the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) and Asean Tourism Association (Aseanta) during the ATF in Laos," it said in a statement.

These sessions involved tourism key players from Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, paving the way for cross-promotional initiatives and collaborations throughout 2024.

Looking ahead, Tourism Selangor said it anticipates a series of cross-promotional events and collaborations, with the aim of reaching its target of attracting over seven million tourists by Visit Selangor Year in 2025.

"The ongoing international campaign, 'Splendid Selangor, Take Me Anywhere!', underscores the state's commitment to fostering bilateral relations with you interested nations and showcasing its diverse attractions, spanning ecotourism, theme parks, cultural and heritage, as well as splendid shopping and leisure experiences" it said.

-nst online.

Malaysia Set To Be The Host For ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025

 

VIENTIANE, 26 Jan 2024 – Malaysia will officially become the next host for the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 after a handing-over session here at Landmark Hotel, Vientiane, Laos in conjunction with ASEAN TOURISM FORUM 2024.

The handing-over serves as another milestone for Malaysia, marking its return to hosting ATF since the last event in 2014 in Kuching, Sarawak.

“We warmly welcome all of you to our country as we foresee this as an important and timely event for Malaysia, especially as we gear up for the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year set to take place in 2026. It is our hope that Malaysia will be your next destination to explore as we have a bit of everything for everyone, said Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.

“Malaysian Government, especially MOTAC together with the State Government is working to strengthen our tourism industry by improving tourism destinations infrastructure, increasing direct flights to Malaysia, implementing Visa On Arrival and to strengthen Muslim- friendly tourism,” he added.

Malaysia is honoured once again to host ATF 2025 and it is even more significant as Malaysia will also become the chairman of ASEAN in the same year.

Known for its rich culture and biodiversity, Malaysia has plenty to offer its visitors from all walks of life, from its friendly people and intertwined traditions, unique culinary delights, to its breathtaking natural ecosystem.

-Tourism Malaysia.

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.

The PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 @ Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia ( 21 ~ 23 Jun 2023 )

 

The PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 Pacific Asia Travel Association, hosted by the Sarawak Tourism Board, took place in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, from June 21-23. 

The event focused on sustainability in action, focusing on managing destinations, digital marketing, and promoting sustainability within the industry. 

The three-day program included technical tours, a forum and B2B adventure travel trade show, and networking events. Tourism professionals gained practical experience in discovering and marketing world-class attractions and products to a global audience in a sustainable way. 

Tourism Malaysia’s Deputy Director General in Promotion, Datuk Musa Hj. Yusof is one of the panel discussing climate action strategies for destinations and operators, highlighting best practices for transitioning from climate strategy to tactics.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia to host inaugural PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023

 

The inaugural PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 will be held in Kuching,
the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia, pictured

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is set to organise the PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 (PDFM 2023) from June 21-23 this year. The event will be held in Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia.

Supported by Sarawak Tourism Board, PDFM 2023 will feature four components: destination experiences, a conference, a B2B adventure travel trade show with one-to-one meetings, and various networking opportunities.

The event provides an opportunity for tourism professionals to gain first-hand practical experience and knowledge in marketing and managing attractions, tourism products, and services that are relatively unknown by both trade and consumers to a global audience in a responsible and sustainable manner.

PATA chair Peter Semone said: “As the travel and tourism industry in the Asia-Pacific region is seeing positive signs of recovery, the inaugural PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 looks to highlight the best practices in destination marketing and destination management in support of a responsible and sustainable recovery for the region.”

Focusing on Ecotourism, Gastronomy Tourism, Adventure Travel, Wellness (particularly Sensory Nature Activities), Destination Management and Digital Marketing, the three-day programme begins with a one-day destination experience through a choice of technical tours, followed by a conference and travel mart spread across two full days, as well as various networking opportunities throughout the programme.

With gastronomy tourism being one of the themes of PDFM 2023, Sarawak Tourism Board’s CEO Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor said the theme suits Sarawak perfectly, as its capital city Kuching was recognised as the City of Gastronomy by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in 2021.

Attractions at the host destination include pristine rainforests, orangutans, the world’s largest flower – the Rafflesia, the Borneo Cultures Museum, and the rare proboscis monkey endemic to Borneo at the oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako National Park.

Buyers, sellers, and conference delegates can register and enjoy early bird rates until February 15.

After PDFM 2023, delegates can also extend their stay and visit the Rainforest World Music Festival, which takes place from June 23-25 – they will receive complimentary access to the first night of the festival on June 23 and ticket discounts for the full event.

-TTG Asia.

Malaysia Participated In ASEAN TOURISM FORUM 2023 For United Recovery Mission

 

YOGYAKARTA, 8 February 2023 – Malaysia’s delegation to the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) this year comes with a mission to combine effort with all ASEAN counterparts for the recovery of the tourism industry in the region. Malaysia is committed to revitalise tourism and to reopen its doors to international tourists.

Leading the Malaysian delegation to this Southeast Asia’s largest tourism trade event is Tourism, Arts & Culture Minister, H.E Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing. He is accompanied by Dato’ Saraya Arbi, Secretary General of Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Dato’ Zainuddin Abdul Wahab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

H.E Minister will attend the 26th ASEAN Tourism Ministers meeting, and the 22nd ASEAN Plus Three Tourism Meeting’s Meeting. The official opening ceremony of ATF 2023 is set on 3rd January 2023 by the H.E Indonesian President Ir. Joko Widodo at the historical Prambanan Temple.

Joining the Malaysian delegation are representatives from Sarawak Tourism Board, Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) and Malaysia Airlines (MAS).

ATF 2023 will cover two concurrent events, namely the Ministerial and Bilateral meetings in Marriot hotel, while the TRAVEX is in the Jogja Expo Center (JEC) which serves as a platform for suppliers of ASEAN tourism products and services and qualified buyers from around the world to meet through pre-scheduled appointments. Both meeting and travel fair are hoped to boost ASEAN tourism business and bilateral understanding at highest level.

For TRAVEX, Malaysia constructed a beautiful tourism-themed booth, depicts the many attractions that Malaysian tourism has to offer, situated at AS 0.005 Hall B, in Jogja Expo Center (JEC).

“Malaysia tourism is well underway for recovery, as we managed to surpass the target of 9.2 million international arrivals in 2022.” said Dato Sri Tiong.

-Tourism Malaysia.

ASEAN tourism ministers report improved KPIs for 2022; more to be done

 

Continued destination marketing under the ASEAN banner as well as the progressive relaxation and removal of travel restrictions by member states throughout 2022 have yielded more positive tourism numbers for the South-east Asian region.

At the February 5 press conference concluding the 26th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers (26th M-ATM) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, meeting chair Sandiaga Uno, minister of tourism and creative economy, Indonesia, noted that destinations in the economic grouping have altogether achieved a 1,706.61 per cent year-on-year increase in tourism receipts based on preliminary figures for 2022.

Tourism ministers of the 10 ASEAN member states and their economic partners met in Yogyakarta, Indonesia last week during ATF 2023

ASEAN member states have also recorded 1,222.99 per cent year-on-year increase in international arrivals, while hotel rate occupancy has improved by 16 per cent over the same period.

Destination marketing efforts fuelling the return of tourists to the region include social media content, digital campaigns and activities bearing the new brand and tagline, A Destination for Every Dream.

The Meeting emphasised the need for member states to deepen their collaboration with relevant partners in the areas of destination marketing. It also commended initiatives that were supported by external partners, such as the Intra-ASEAN Tourism Recovery Campaign, which received support from the Canadian Trade and Investment Facility for Development, as well as ASEAN’s collaboration with regional travel trade publisher and event organiser TTG Asia Media and the Sub-Regional Secretariats to amplify the call to visit South-east Asia.

Focus ahead will be on accomplishing even more key measures under the Post-Covid-19 Recovery Plan for ASEAN Tourism. These include developing regional cruise tourism and the promotion of new and lesser known destinations in the region.

Sandiaga recognises that connectivity improvements – not just within South-east Asia but also from markets outside of the region – are crucial for ASEAN member states to achieve these joint tourism goals.

In the case of Indonesia, direct flights to and from India are still lacking despite the latter being the “lowest of the low-hanging fruits” for tourism.

Philippine Tourism secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said tourism heads have agreed to work on boosting air lift by identifying airports that can be used to operate additional direct flights for the purpose of driving tourism flow into both key and emerging destinations.

She added that some of the new flights – either scheduled or chartered – may be launched this year for routes within South-east Asia as well as to and from ASEAN-Plus Three partners China, India and South Korea.

Tourism development across the region will also consider responsible and inclusive growth for all, and the need for greater digitalisation.

-TTG Asia.

World Tourism Day 2022 "Rethinking Tourism" @ Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, Malaysia ( 27 September 2022 )

 

The School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events, in collaboration with the PATA Malaysia Chapter (PMC) and PATA Malaysia Taylor's Student Chapter (PATA-MTSC), is organizing a hybrid forum on “Rethinking Tourism” on September 27, 2022 at 2pm-4pm.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear excellent views from tourism stakeholders from Tourism Malaysia, PATA Malaysia Chapter, Malaysia Inbound Tourism Association and Traveloka. See you there!!!

Rrgister for this forum by clicking this link World Tourism Day - Youth Symposium 2022 | Peatix or scanning the QR code in the poster!

-Tourism Malaysia.

Promoting Malaysia As A Safe Travel Destination At ASEAN TOURISM FORUM (ATF) 2022

 

PUTRAJAYA, 21 January 2022 – Malaysia’s delegation to the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) this year comes with a mission to promote Malaysia as a safe travel destination following ASEAN’s unanimous support and commitment to revitalise tourism and to reopen its doors to international tourists.

Leading the Malaysian delegation to this Southeast Asia’s largest tourism trade event is Datuk Wira Dr. Noor Zari Hamat, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and attended by Datuk Musa Yusof, Deputy Director-General (Promotion) of Tourism Malaysia.

Hosted in the coastal city of Sihanoukville in Cambodia, the 40th edition of ATF 2022 from 16th to 22nd January 2022 convenes on the theme of “ASEAN – A Community of Peace and Share Future”. Joining the Malaysian delegation are representatives from Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) and Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC).

Besides national tourism organisations (NTOs) Media Briefing, the ATF 2022 portfolio comprises The Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), the forum’s travel trade fair, which serves as a platform for suppliers of ASEAN tourism products and services and qualified buyers from around the world to meet through pre-scheduled appointments. Taking place along this forum are several meetings, including the Meeting of ASEAN NTOs and the 25th ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting.

Officially opened by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, ATF 2022 welcomes 350 participants from more than 27 countries and regions. More than 200 travel buyers and sellers, as well as 50 local and international media, attended this forum.

Datuk Musa Yusof said: “In conjunction with ATF 2022, we have also hosted a special networking luncheon with travel agents and meet industry players in Phnom Penh to update our partners on the latest Malaysia’s tourism products and development.”

ASEAN market is the top contributor in terms of tourist arrivals to Malaysia. The Cambodian arrivals in Malaysia recorded a positive 7.8% growth of 90,113 in 2018 to 97,097 in 2019.

-Tourism Malaysia.

ASEAN Tourism Awards 2022

 

20 January 2022 - ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2022, in Preah Sihanoukville, Cambodia, from 16th - 22nd January 2022 under the theme "ASEAN - A Community of Peace and Shared Future" recognised fourteen tourism businesses and stakeholders in the region and were awarded ASEAN Tourism Standard Awards. The official announcement and awards ceremony held yesterday, 19 January 2022 was attended by Datuk Wira Dr. Noor Zari Hamat, Secretary General, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia.

ASEAN member countries are pleased to present four categories of ASEAN Tourism Standard Awards, including the 8th ASEAN Green Hotel Award, 3rd ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award, 3rd ASEAN MICE Venue Award (Meeting Room), and 3rd ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award, at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2022 to recognise and honour outstanding ASEAN tourism businesses and destinations that comply with the above ASEAN Tourism Standards.

In accordance with the ASEAN Strategic Tourism Plan 2016-2025, the ASEAN Tourism Standard is also a standard for all ASEAN member countries, and regional tourism industry players to use as a guide in providing high-quality and excellent service delivery to tourists which aims to make ASEAN an excellent destination on a global scale.

The ten ASEAN member countries, namely Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam, have deemed tourism service standardisation essential for improving the quality of tourism products and services and promoting responsible management among tourism businesses and stakeholders in the region.

ASEAN has created eight tourism standards under the auspices of ASEAN National Tourism Organizations which are:

1. ASEAN Green Hotel Standard

2. ASEAN Spa Services Standard

3. ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard

4. ASEAN Community Based Tourism Standard

5. ASEAN Homestay Standard

6. ASEAN Public Toilet Standard

7. ASEAN MICE Venue Standard

8. ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Standard

The awardees of the ASEAN Tourism Awards 2022 are as follows:

ASEAN GREEN HOTEL STANDARD (2022-2024)

1. Mandarin Oriental (Kuala Lumpur)

2. The Datai Langkawi (Kedah)

3. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa (Pulau Pinang)

4. Golden Sand Resort by Shangri-La (Pulau Pinang)

ASEAN CLEAN TOURIST CITY STANDARD (2022-2024)

5. Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang (Pulau Pinang)

6. Majlis Perbandaran Muar (Johor)

7. Majlis Pembandaran Langkawi Bandaraya Pelancongan (Kedah)

ASEAN MICE VENUE STANDARD (MEETING ROOM) (2022-2024)

8. Four Points by Sheraton Puchong (Selangor)

9. Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson (Negeri Sembilan)

10. Le Meridien Hotel Putrajaya (Putrajaya)

11. Doubletree by Hilton Melaka (Melaka)

12. Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa (Pulau Pinang)

ASEAN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM STANDARD (2022-2023)

13. Urban Category - The Habitat Penang Hill (Pulau Pinang)

14. Rural Category - Walai Penyu Conservation Park, Libaran (Sabah)

-MOTAC.

ASEAN tourism community meets in “a small country with a big heart”

 

The 40th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) convenes this week at Sokha Beach Resort in Sihanoukville, where the city’s largest meeting venue is.

This year’s meeting, which bears the theme, ASEAN – A Community of Peace and Shared Future, welcomes 350 delegates from across 27 countries and regions. These include tourism leaders and officials, international trade buyers, exhibitors, media as well as trade visitors and passionate travellers.

The hosting of ATF 2022 coincides with Cambodia’s 2020-2025 national tourism roadmap, which was announced on April 1, 2020 by prime minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen to rebuild the industry post-pandemic.

In line with the country’s tourism restart, Cambodia reopened her borders to fully vaccinated international tourists on November 15 last year, under a Safe and Clean tourism campaign.

ATF 2022 will not only promote international and regional travel across South-east Asia, it will also showcase Cambodia’s unique tourism products and latest developments in Sihanoukville.

In a welcome statement to ATF 2022 delegates, Cambodia’s minister of tourism, Thong Khon, emphasised the country’s commitment to delivering a safe ATF 2022. Stringent hygiene standards are in abidance, including regular sanitisation and disinfection of the venue.

-TTG Asia.

MITA works to connect Malaysian tourism players with SE Asian agents

 

In anticipation of stiffer regional competition for the tourism pie following the pandemic, the Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) is giving inbound players in the country a head start by organising virtual B2B sessions to connect local tourism players with overseas travel agencies ahead of the annual ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF).

This year’s ATF, hosted by Cambodia, will take place from January 16 to 22 in Preah Sihanoukville.

MITA hopes to showcase new tourism products in Malaysia via B2B meetings with regional travel agents

MITA president, Uzaidi Udanis, shared that the association has planned seven B2B meetings with agents from Vietnam, Thailand, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines between January 4 and 14.

Unlike the traditional format of travel trade shows where pre-appointments are made and business appointments are prescribed a time limit, Uzaidi shared that MITA has done away with these formalities.

He said that the aim of organising these B2B events is to provide regional exposure for SMEs in Malaysia’s tourism sector, while showcasing new products and services that the country has to offer.

At the same time, Uzaidi hopes that it will encourage outbound players who had to pivot to attract the domestic market during this pandemic to now expand their services into the inbound sector, in preparation for the return of leisure tourists, which is expected sometime later this year.

He explained the focus is on South-east Asia as the region represented the majority of Malaysia’s inbound tourist arrivals pre-pandemic. China, which used to be the country’s top medium-haul source market, was excluded as “our outbound counterparts from China were not confident that China would allow its citizens to travel overseas for leisure purposes before 3Q2022,” shared Uzaidi.

To encourage participation, the fee is capped at RM100 (US$24) per session for sellers. It is free for buyers to attend.

Uzaidi stressed: “At ATF, we are competing with our counterparts for regional and international travel business. It is also easy for small and niche sellers, such as adventure tourism players, to get ‘drowned’. Here, we keep the fee affordable and encourage new sellers in the market to participate, and we are not competing with other nations for business.”

South-east Asian travel agents who wish to participate as buyers can register at https://virtualaseanb2b.eventbrite.com. Registration for Malaysian sellers has closed.

-TTG Asia.

ASEAN Tourism Forum pushed to 2022

 

Cambodia moves ASEAN Tourism Forum to 2022

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2021, originally scheduled to take place in Cambodia from January 17-23, has been postponed until January 2022.

In a statement announcing the shift of the event, Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism said: “While some countries have successfully contained the virus, resurgent cases have also been observed in other countries. With the evolving situation of the Covid-19 pandemic, Cambodia and countries worldwide are still imposing restrictions on large-scale events and travel.

“Proceeding with ATF 2021 in this climate will be challenging as foreign delegations, media, sellers, buyers and trade visitors have expressed concerns about travelling.”

Highlighting that its top priority is the health and safety of all the participants of ATF 2021, the ministry called the postponement “a difficulty but necessary decision”. Revised dates will be announced as soon as possible, it added.

The annual travel trade show rotates annually between the 10 ASEAN member states – Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

ATF 2021 was expected to attract more than 2,000 participants from across 25 countries, including government ministers and officials, sellers, buyers, media as well as trade visitors in the tourism industry.

-TTG Asia.

Digital Marketing in Hospitality and Tourism Forum : The Values and Way Forward ( 4 December 2020 )

 

Digital Marketing in Hospitality and Tourism Forum : The Values and Way Forward

Date: 4 December 2020

Time: 3.00pm-4.30pm (Malaysian Standard Time)

Zoom link (which activates on Dec 4): https://zoom.us/j/92148770639

The key aim of this webinar is to share a perspective on how tourism and hospitality companies should leverage digital media and expand to attract a larger consumer base and persuade them to buy.

-Tourism Malaysia.