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Agoda reveals fourth installment of its Eco Deals programme at ASEAN Tourism Forum
Agoda unveiled the fourth installment of its Eco Deals programme at the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum in Malaysia. This new development further strengthens Agoda’s ongoing partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). Aligned with the forum’s theme Unity in Motion: Shaping ASEAN’s Tourism Tomorrow, the initiative aims to safeguard wildlife and protect critical habitats across Asia. Under the Eco Deals initiative, Agoda pledges to donate USD 1 to WWF for every booking made at participating hotels. That said, Agoda has set itself an ambitious 2025 donation target of US$1.5 million, surpassing last year’s goal of US$1 million. Aside from Southeast Asian nations, the Eco Deals programme also includes Japan and Korea, expanding to a total of 10 markets. What will the funds be used for? Funds raised through the Eco Deals programme will support a wide range of conservation projects, including: Japan: Wetland restoration Korea: Spoonbill protection Malaysia: Tiger conservation Philippines: Whale shark protection Thailand: Elephant conservation Vietnam: Saola protection Indonesia: Ecosystem restoration Laos PDR: Urban wetland development Cambodia: Ranger support Bookings under the program will be available from 20 January to 19 December 2025. Making positive impact Through Eco Deals, participating hotels offer customers discounts of up to 15 percent while receiving an Eco Deals badge and increased visibility on Agoda’s platforms, including social media and in-app promotions. Dedicated landing pages on Agoda’s website provide a seamless booking experience for travelers looking to make a positive environmental impact. Agoda chief commercial officer Damien Pfirsch said: “Eco Deals 2025 represents our commitment to preserving Asia’s natural beauty while ensuring affordable travel for future generations. By expanding our impact to 10 markets and launching the Sustainable Tourism Impact Fund, we’re creating meaningful opportunities for hotels and businesses to contribute to sustainability.”
Indonesia casts spotlight on sustainable tourism at ASEAN Tourism Forum
Indonesia presented a number of its tourism strategies, including measures for sustainable tourism at this year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Malaysia. The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy showcased several groundbreaking initiatives geared towards boosting Southeast Asian tourism through more sustainable practices. At the same time, tourism deputy for marketing Ni Made Ayu Marthini discussed the greater potential of ASEAN as a source market, seeing how 4.3 million travellers from Indonesia’s closest neighbours made their way to the country in the past year. Introducing Tourism 5.0 and other measures Among the programmes showcased during the ATF were Indonesia’s clean tourism movement, tourism digitalisation under the Tourism 5.0 framework, as well as the development of special interest attractions. These initiatives are part of Indonesia's broader goal of promoting quality and sustainable tourism. Indonesian tourism also hit a milestone at ATF 2025 thanks to the Wonderful Indonesia Pavilion which drew in business transactions worth around US2.5 million.
Philippines generates close to US$7.5 million in sales leads at ASEAN Tourism Forum
More foreign tourists are expected to visit the Philippines after the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) generated close to a record US$ 7.5 million in sales leads at the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025 in Malaysia. In a statement released on Monday, 27th January, TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Nograles said the figure represents an 8.38 percent increase from last year’s participation. She said: “The record-breaking sales leads reflect not just the interest in our destinations but also the trust international buyers have in the Philippines as a tourism hub, which represents a strong foundation for sustained collaboration and growth in the years to come.” An enchanting showcase At the ATF Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) 2025, the Philippines showcased its pristine beaches and vibrant cultural heritage. The country also underscored its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. The Philippine delegation included 17 local exhibitors representing travel agencies, hotels, resorts, MICE venues, and an airline engaged with 355 international buyers. Cultural performances and a musical medley by homegrown Filipino talents Acapellago, Sindaw Performing Arts Group, and violinist Juleous Gacang were featured. Guests were also treated to a four-course Filipino menu by chef Don Baldosano, as well as a diverse selection of Asian-inspired international dishes prepared by the Renaissance Hotel. Nograles said: "This commitment to creating experiences that connect people across borders is something we all share, and tonight’s dinner is our way of saying salamat (thank you) for your partnership, friendship, and support in championing Southeast Asia as a world-class tourist destination.”
Indonesia promotes new tourism programmes at the ASEAN Tourism Forum
Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism brought a rafter of new tourism programmes to the Travel Exchange of recently-concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum in Malaysia. Among the programmes showcased were Indonesia’s clean tourism movement, tourism 5.0 digitalisation initiative, as well as the ongoing development of special-interest attractions. Tourism ministry deputy for marketing Ni Made Ayu Marthini pointed out that the ASEAN Tourism Forum offered the best opportunity for the country to introduce new initiatives for the development of its tourism sector. Marthini added that Indonesia received 4,303,773 tourist arrivals from Southeast Asian countries in the past year. She said: "This ASEAN market still has great potential for optimisation.” How to draw in more tourists from neighbouring Malaysia Likewise, the Ministry is working with the Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI) in Johor Bahru, the Johor State Government, and the Riau Islands Provincial Government to improve Johor's connectivity with parts of Indonesia. The partnerships also seek to establish cross-regional tourism promotion cooperation between the two nations. Sigit Suryantoro Widiyanto, Indonesia’s consul-general in Johor Bahru, explained how the cross-border tourism promotion programme will include special border treatment for Malaysians residing in Johor who wish to travel to the Riau Islands, and vice-versa. Widyanto said: "Regarding the plan for special border treatment, the Riau Islands Province Regional Tourism Promotion Agency and Tourism Johor are currently in the technical implementation discussion stage with tourism business actors in their respective regions.”
ASEAN Explorer Pass by AirAsia MOVE highlighted at ASEAN Tourism Forum
AirAsia MOVE’s signature travel subscription product the ASEAN Explorer Pass was featured during the closing ceremony for the 2025 ASEAN Tourism Forum in Johor, Malaysia on Monday, 20th January. The product was hailed as an initiative that facilitates accessible and inclusive travel across the whole ASEAN region. The ASEAN Explorer Pass by AirAsia MOVE is an annual travel pass which allows subscribers to explore the whole ASEAN region through AirAsia’s international and domestic flight network. The Pass also enables holders to enjoy hotel discounts as well as connectivity on-ground through AirAsia Ride for a full year from the date of subscription, aside from seasonal perks throughout the year. AirAsia MOVE chief executive Nadia Omer said: “We are honoured to have the ASEAN Explorer Pass featured as an initiative that promotes travel across ASEAN, as part of the 2025 ASEAN Tourism Forum closing ceremony. We would like to thank Yang Berhormat Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia for launching this product with us in April last year, and now recommending the ASEAN Explorer Pass by AirAsia MOVE to the region’s key tourism stakeholders as a key enabler for everyone to discover the region's diverse landscapes. I would also like to thank ASEANTA for championing the cause of a closer and more connected ASEAN, as well as Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chairman of ASEAN-BAC Malaysia and Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A for their immense support in making this unique ASEAN travel subscription product possible. A key to exploration Omer added that, in line with the 2025 ASEAN Tourism Forum’s theme Unity in Motion: Shaping ASEAN’s Tourism Tomorrow, the ASEAN Explorer Pass will enable exploration of this region beyond the popular destinations and main Tier-1 cities, and showcase the hidden gems of each ASEAN member country. Aside from that, this would also indirectly contribute towards the economic growth of each local community and help curb overtourism at the main destinations. Since the Pass’ launch in April 2024, over 25,000 trips have been completed across ASEAN which include cities such as Makassar, Jogjakarta, Da Nang, Johor Bahru, Chiang Mai, and many more destinations. Omer concluded by saying: “As an online travel agent (OTA), we hope each ASEAN country’s national flag carrier will consider being part of the ASEAN Explorer Pass, and look forward to having conversations with each of you. Let’s join hands to unlock even more destinations across ASEAN for the world to experience.”
Tourism Authority of Thailand showcases at ASEAN Tourism Forum
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is currently in Johor, Malaysia for this year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) which opened yesterday, 15th January, and will be held until Friday, 17th January. Under the theme Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year, TAT’s Pavilion showcases Thailand’s unique travel experiences and its role in driving regional tourism growth. TAT deputy governor for international marketing in Asia and the South Pacific Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai said: “TAT’s participation in ATF 2025 reflects our dedication to building strong partnerships and positioning Thailand as a leader in ASEAN’s tourism landscape. This key B2B platform allows us to enhance connectivity and deliver experiences that resonate with global audiences. The Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year campaign invites the world to explore Thailand’s vibrant energy, cultural richness, and endless opportunities for discovery.” TAT’s presence at ATF 2025 highlights its focus on advancing sustainable tourism growth and solidifying Thailand’s position as a premier destination in ASEAN and beyond. Through initiatives like the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 and the Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End campaign, TAT inspires travellers to discover Thailand’s unique blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Showcasing Thailand’s five key musts The 90-square-metre Thailand Pavilion highlights five key experiences: Taste, Try, Buy, Seek, and See. Seven Thai tourism operators are currently engaging with international buyers through B2B meetings, fostering partnerships and expanding opportunities. Visitors can enjoy traditional Thai snacks, complimentary Wi-Fi, and immersive cultural displays. An interactive Information Counter provides travel insights and recommendations via digital QR codes. Thailand’s 2024 in a nutshell At the media briefing, TAT executive director for advertising and public relations Denduen Luengcheng, reviewed Thailand’s tourism achievements and goals. In 2024, the country welcomed 35.5 million international visitors, with over 30 percent from ASEAN. As a regional tourism hub, Thailand continues to strengthen connectivity across ASEAN. In 2024, the aviation sector expanded by 26 percent, with new routes from airlines such as AirAsia, Vietravel Airlines, Lao Airlines, and Malindo Airways. Land connectivity improved with streamlined border processes and the Bangkok-Vientiane train service, making cross-border travel more accessible.
ASEAN Tourism Forum heads to Malaysia in 2025
The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025 is slated for 15th to 20th January 2025 in Johor, Malaysia with the theme Unity in Motion: Shaping ASEAN’s Tourism Tomorrow. The Forum’s primary meetings will all be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru which will also host the ASEAN Travel Awards on the last day of the event. Held in partnership with the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, as well as Tourism Malaysia, ATF 2025 is committed to building an ASEAN tourism industry that is robust and sustainable. The forum seeks to overcome current obstacles and clear the path for a prosperous future by utilising the combined abilities and common goals of its member states. It is hoped that governments throughout the region can jointly create a future where global travellers may be captivated and inspired by Southeast Asia's breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and inspirational stories. Building bridges in the tourism sector To foster cooperation among travel professionals, the ASEAN Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) will be held concurrently with the event. Note, however, that TRAVEX will be held separately from the forum at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre. In essence, TRAVEX is a business platform designed for ASEAN buyers and sellers to connect with each other and explore a diverse range of destination products and services. It is the perfect avenue to forge new business partnerships through pre-scheduled appointments. For regional cooperation Since it was first held in 1981, the ATF is an annual event that showcases Southeast Asia as a unified travel destination. It brings together ministers of tourism, government representatives, corporations, and media from the ten ASEAN nations. The ATF includes meetings, the TRAVEX trade show, and various conferences focusing on themes like sustainable tourism and digital transformation.
Agoda announces launch of its third edition Eco Deals Program at the ASEAN Tourism Forum
Agoda, the global digital travel platform, announced at the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) that it has broadened its collaboration with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), expanding its Eco Deals Program to support eight conservation projects across Southeast Asia. As a part of ATF’s official agenda, Agoda hosted a luncheon with the presence of ASEAN Tourism Ministers as well as Secretary-General of ASEAN. Agoda’s CEO Omri Morgenshtern and Elizabeth Clarke, WWF-Singapore’s Director of Conservation outlined the vision and goals for the partnership in the presence of representatives from ASEAN National Tourism Organizations, the ASEAN Secretariat and also ASEAN Dialogue Partners. Agoda’s Eco Deals showcases an example of private-public partnership in support of ATF’s theme: “Quality and responsible tourism - Sustaining ASEAN Future”. Agoda will increase its donation to WWF-Singapore four-fold to USD $1 million as part of this year's Eco Deals Program, supporting the conservation efforts of local WWF offices in eight markets, including ATF host Lao PDR, as well as Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. As per the previous editions of the program, Agoda will donate USD $1 for each hotel booking made on hotels participating in the initiative. These funds will support WWF’s diverse conservation projects, spanning marine, forest, and wildlife preservation, including the protection of Tigers in Malaysia, Whale Sharks in the Philippines, and Elephants in Thailand. The other projects receiving support this year focus on the conservation of Saolas in Vietnam, ecosystem restoration in Indonesia, ranger support in Cambodia, and improvement of urban wetlands in Lao PDR. The Eco Deals Program which is actively onboarding accommodation partners will go live to consumers on 3 March 2024 and run until 3 December 2024. From the ATF event on 26 January, Omri Morgenshtern, Chief Executive Officer, Agoda said: “As a company that aims to make travel possible for more people, we recognize we have a responsibility to contribute to the preservation of destinations. Through our longstanding partnership with WWF under the Eco Deals Program and the collaborative support of our hotel partners, we aspire to proactively champion initiatives that contribute to the further preservation and protection of the world, ensuring that it remains an environment for future generations to explore and enjoy.” The Chair of the ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting (MATM), H.E. Minister Suanesavanh Vignaket of Ministry of Information, Culture, Tourism, Laos said, “We invite public and private sectors to actively participate in advancing and cultivating sustainable practices in ASEAN, aligning with the principles outlined in the ASEAN Framework on Sustainable Tourism Development. Noteworthy collaborations such as the partnership between Agoda and WWF serve as excellent examples, contributing significantly to raising awareness about responsible travel and ASEAN as travel destinations.” Omri Morgenshtern – CEO Agoda with the ASEAN delegation Vivek Kumar, Chief Executive Officer, WWF-Singapore said: “WWF's latest Living Planet Report reveals a staggering 69% drop in wildlife populations on average in less than a lifetime. As an international hub, WWF-Singapore is well-positioned to continue driving positive change in Southeast Asia. The conservation impact we have achieved over the last two years showcases the tangible effect our collaboration has on the environment. As we embark on our third year of partnership with Agoda, we look forward to expanding projects for marine, forest, and wildlife conservation.” The WWF conservation projects supported in the second edition of the Eco Deals Program saw some spectacular successes: In Singapore, 5 volunteer training sessions for the Cyber Spotters Program were conducted to equip 156 participants with the skills to identify over 6,000 illegal wildlife trade listings on online and social platforms. In Cambodia, a total of 41 government and 42 community rangers received training, completing 299 patrols covering over 17,000 km in the protected areas of Srepok and Phnom Prich Wildlife Sanctuaries, leading to the discovery of 13 illegal logging and poaching sites. In Indonesia, a total area of 142.39 hectares was restored through planting activities together with the local communities and stakeholders. 28 camera traps were deployed to monitor wildlife activity, capturing a rare image of a Sumatran Tiger and 2 cubs. In Malaysia, 20 teams consisting of 116 individuals patrolled the Belum-Temengor Forest Complex over 2,849 days and marked a second consecutive year of zero active snares were recorded. 282 camera traps were also installed in 141 locations within the landscape to monitor wildlife activity. In Vietnam, plans for the procurement of GPS and smartphones using SMART Connect and SMART Mobile for patrols are in place. Training courses have been scheduled to coach 90 rangers and technical staff at Yok Don National Park and the Dak Lak Elephant Conservation Centre on how to use SMART technology during their patrols to better manage and protect wildlife and their habitats.
Frasco to lead PH delegation at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in Laos
Manila, Philippines—Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco will lead the Philippine tourism delegation at the 2024 ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Vientiane, Laos from January 24 to 26, 2024. Established in 1981, the ATF is a cooperative regional effort to promote the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as one tourist destination. Ten ASEAN member states Brunei-Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam will again gather to strengthen collaboration among each other in further improving the region’s tourism products to attract more international tourists, at the same time, to contribute more to the community and toward the sustainability of tourism within the region. This year’s ATF theme is "Quality and Responsible Tourism - Sustaining ASEAN Future," with the Philippines expected to share its commitment to the country’s sustainable and responsible tourism practices in a series of panel discussions participated in by tourism ministers, representatives from various governments as well as private sector organizations within the region. Joining the tourism chief in representing the Philippines is Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines Chief Operating Officer (COO) Marga Norgrales and other officials of the DOT including National Tourism Organization (NTO) head OIC-Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso. "I am honored to lead the Philippine delegation at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in Vientiane, Laos. The ATF is a testament to the collaborative spirit among ASEAN member states, working together to showcase our region as a premier tourist destination. This year's theme underscores the importance of responsible tourism practices. The Philippines is eager to share our commitment to sustainable tourism while learning from other countries’ best practices through meaningful discussions and engagements during the panel sessions,” Secretary Frasco said. “We look forward to fostering stronger ties, promoting our tourism products, and contributing to the long-term sustainability of tourism in the ASEAN region. Together, we can create a future where quality tourism enriches communities and provides livelihood while preserving our natural wonders,” enthused the tourism chief. One of the highlights of the event is also the three-day Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) sessions from January 24 to 26 to facilitate a business-to-business platform for buyers across the world to meet with ASEAN tourism products and service providers, establish new business connections, and strengthen existing relationships with partners. Fifteen local exhibitors from the airline, tour operators, hotels and resorts, and MICE industries will participate at TRAVEX. The airline industry will be represented by the Philippine Airlines; resorts and hotels will be joined by Lihim Resorts El Nido by Araw Hospitality Inc., Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark Mactan Cebu, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa, Araneta Hotels Inc. (Novotel Manila Araneta City), AJ Coffee and Bed (Kaulayaw Coffee), ALI Makati Hotel Property Inc. - Raffles and Fairmont Hotel Makati; while local tour operators and the MICE industry will be participated by SMX Convention Center, Quasar Travel and Tours, Uni Orient Travel Inc., Marsman Drysdale Travel, Inc., Annset Holidays Inc., and CTPH Tour. Meanwhile, DOT and TPB will host the Philippine night, a late-night function for international attendees where guests will have a peek at the country’s tourism gems and allow them to taste Philippine local flavors while enjoying some cultural performances lined up for the event. The bilateral meetings for the ATF 2024 will begin on January 23, with the closing ceremony on January 27. The 27th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers will be attended by ASEAN Secretary General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn; Philippine Tourism Secretary Frasco; Brunei Darussalam Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Data Dr. Abdul Manaf Metussin; Cambodia Minister of Tourism Sok Soken; Indonesia Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno; Lao PDR Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Suanesavanh Vignaket; Malaysia Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing; Myanmar Union Minister of Hotels and Tourism Thet Thet Khine; Singapore Chief Executive of Singapore Tourism Board Melissa Ow; Thailand Minister of Tourism and Sports Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol; Vietnam Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung; and Timor Leste Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, and Minister for Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay.
ASEAN Tourism Forum 2018: Food trips, sustainability and scaling up in the next 50 years
The outlook for travel within Southeast Asia is bright and tasty. The recent 37th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) saw the region’s tourism ministers express optimism on growing the sector in 2018 onwards, coming from milestones achieved by 2017’s VisitASEAN@50 campaign. The 21st Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers shared preliminary data (as shown on above infographic) that indicated as many as 125 million international tourist arrivals for the entire region, far ahead of the VisitASEAN@50 campaign target of 121 million global inbound visitors. Once confirmed, this would mean tourism to the region grew by 8.4% from 2016. Weerasak Kowsurat, 36th ATF chair and tourism minister of Thailand, welcomed these developments, saying: “As we celebrate this most recent success, we still recognise the scale of the task before us and the urgency in enhancing our competitiveness to achieve sustainable development. We must, therefore, ensure that we unite to create the synergy which brings about inclusive growth and that none of us is left behind.” Tourism: best served with variety and to taste Part of the ASEAN tourism ministers’ plans was to continue investing in the travel and tourism sector in 2018 and beyond. They approved the creation of a permanent secretariat in Jakarta to improve and unify tourism industry standards across member states. The Ministers’ meeting also focused on cruise tourism, with the possible inclusion of yachting and marina activities. Discussions centred on cruise-related policies and regulations, efficiency in processes, responsibility in business practices, capacity building, destination management, and effects on local communities and the environment. ATF 2018 chair Weerasak Kowsurat, tourism minister of Thailand The tourism ministers also agreed to increase cross-border bus and train traffic in cooperation with their transport counterparts, who reached a consensus to ease border restrictions in 2017. Their joint plans include improving major tourism corridors and allowing travellers from member states to use domestic drivers’ licenses, with research indicating that easing travel across Indochina and Singapore would boost intra-ASEAN tourism. Central to the Ministers’ meeting was the adoption of the Joint Declaration on Gastronomy and Tourism at the ASEAN Gastronomy Conference, which was themed 'The Future of Food: Turning ASEAN Tradition and Craftsmanship into Sustainable Gastronomic Tourism.' The declaration set up the region’s gastronomy platform for sharing knowledge. “Gastronomic tourism helps to create a strong sense of place for branding and marketing destinations, and also assists in maintaining and preserving local heritage and identity, and protecting biodiversity” – Joint Declaration on Gastronomy and Tourism Featuring keynote speeches by International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) president Dr. Diane Dodd, and Auckland University of Technology culinary arts associate professor Dr. Tracy Berno, plus a moderated panel featuring Thai chefs Chumpol Jangprai and Black Panupon, the conference discussed the role of gastronomy in building competitive destination experiences, as well as in driving inclusion, citizen participation and sustainable development. New awards launched Speaking of sustainability, the ATF recognised 17 establishments from nine member countries at the inaugural ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Awards (ASTA). This award will run every two years as part of the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan 2016-2025. The nine winners in the Rural Products category are: Cambodia – Sothy’s Pepper Farm, a farm powered by solar panels and wind turbines that showcases the kampot pepper, the first Cambodian product to benefit from the World Trade Association status of Protected Geographical Indication Indonesia – Desa Wisata Nglanggeran, a rural town revolving around a replanted forest surrounding an ancient volcano Lao PDR – Tree Top Explorer, a jungle hotel made of treehouses and a village homestay programme all situated inside the Dong Huasao National Protected Area Malaysia – KOPEL Kinabatangan Wildlife Corridor, a habitat restoration programme led and managed by the indigenous Batu Puteh community Myanmar – The Pindaya Region, featuring a limestone cave filled with more than 8,000 Buddha statues perched on a cliff above Pone-Ta-Loat Lake The Philippines – Walk on the Wild Side, an adventure trek inside the Sabang rainforest of Palawan, 2016’s “Most Beautiful Island in the World” Singapore – Kranji Countryside Association, overseeing farms catering to vegetable production, nurseries, restaurants, pottery and homestays within the Kranji Reservoir, home to the Keranji tree (dialium indicum) Thailand – Koh Yao Noi Community Based Ecotourism Club, a multi-awarded homestay and immersion programme hosted by residents of Koh Yao Noi island in the middle of Phang Nga Bay Vietnam – Stay with Tay Ethnic Village, an immersion experience complete with stilt house homestays by an indigenous community outside the city of Thai Nguyen ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Awards 2018 winners The eight winners in the Urban Products category are: Cambodia – Wat Phnom Historical and Cultural Site, at the centre of Phnom Penh Indonesia – Nusa Dua, a Bali island Lao PDR – Phousi Mountain, at the centre of Luang Prabang town Malaysia – KL Forest Eco Park by KL Tower, also named Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve Myanmar – Kayin State’s Natural Limestone Caves, within the territory of the Karen people in Hpa-an, along the Thanwin River The Philippines – Palina Greenbelt River Cruise Experience, adjudged National Grand Winner in Community-based Responsible Tourism Enterprise in 2016 Singapore – Gardens By The Bay at the Marina Bay Precinct Thailand – Phuket Natural Experience, a tour of the mangrove forest and Koh Taphao Noi Island packaged as “Tongkah Harbour and Vicinity Delight” Award entries were assessed by the National Tourism Organization (NTO) in each ASEAN member state. The participating countries also standardised the judging criteria and scoring process. Auditors took inspection visits to all short-listed sites. Sounh Manivong, the tourism marketing director general of the Lao PDR Government, served as 2018 chair. Held every January since its 1981 inception in Malaysia, the ATF is a yearly cooperative regional effort to present ASEAN as a singular tourist destination. As one of the biggest events promoting tourism in Asia, ASEAN member countries host it on a rotational basis. Other ATF events include the ASEAN NTO meeting, the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) trade fair showcasing ASEAN destinations, airline meetings, press briefings, and a tourism conference. Vietnam will mount ATF 2019 in Halong Bay, while Brunei Darussalam will host the next ASTA along with the ATF in 2020.
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