The recent announcement by the Malaysian transport minister, Anthony Loke, that airline operators from South-east Asia can make stopovers within ASEAN member state airports before heading to another point in the region and which will come into effect this year, is poised to enhance air connectivity and drive greater travel and tourism within the region.
The Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA) president, Tan Kok Liang, said: “Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights between Points within the Territory (Protocol 5 for short) encourages seamless intra-ASEAN travel, making it easier for travellers to explore multiple destinations within a single trip.
“Through Protocol 5, the potential for further developing travel and tourism within the region is huge.
“Airlines in the region stand to benefit from improved load factors by offering more flexible routing options while also reducing the environmental footprint of travel. This is achieved by minimising the need for backtracking and optimising flight routes.
“Additionally, it will enhance air connectivity to secondary cities within the region, enabling tour operators to develop and promote packages to lesser-known destinations.
“We fully support this initiative by ASEAN transport ministers, as it aligns with our mission to promote sustainable growth and seamless connectivity within the region.”
Tan is confident of increased footfall across South-east Asia, which will in turn stimulate local economies and generate demand for accommodation, tours, and other travel services.
Although detailed implementation plans for Protocol 5 have yet to be announced by ASEAN governments, Tan stressed the importance of FATA members engaging proactively with their national carriers.
“It is vital for our members to understand how airlines in the region plan to leverage Protocol 5 to expand their networks,” he told TTG Asia.
He stressed: “Early collaboration with airlines as well as national and state tourism boards will not only help our members prepare for the changes but also allow them to design innovative travel products that maximise the Protocol’s potential.
“Proactive engagement will position us to seize the opportunities Protocol 5 creates.”
