The prolonged weekend monsoon rain cleared up just in time for the Malaysian state of Johor to play host to ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025, which kicked off this morning at Persada Johor International Convention Centre.
Top ASEAN tourism representatives show a united front at the opening ceremony for ATF 2025; photo by Caleb Richard Lai
Apart from meetings among the region’s tourism ministries, the event also provides a B2B business matching platform through the ASEAN Travel Exchange, more commonly known as TRAVEX. This year, almost 100 seller organisations from the region will meet with over 300 potential buyers.
ASEAN Tourism Conference will present three days of insightful discussions and presentations alongside TRAVEX.
4 cities in Vietnam dominated the top 10 list, including Da Nang, Hanoi, Nah Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City
Agoda has released its top 10 ranking of the most pet-friendly travel destinations in Asia, and Vietnam’s Danang, the Philippines’ Cebu, and Vietnam’s Hanoi have taken up the top three positions in descending order.
The ranking is calculated based on the average number of accommodation that allows pets.
4 cities in Vietnam dominated the top 10 list, including Da Nang, Hanoi, Nah Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City
The rest of the list in descending order comprises: Nha Trang, Vietnam; Tainan, Taiwan; Pattaya, Thailand; Taichung, Taiwan; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; New Delhi, India; and Manila, the Philippines.
Pet travel is on the rise in Asia with millennials and gen Zs leading the way, according to a study by Allied Market Research. Agoda saw a 64 per cent growth in pet-friendly properties last year.
Lam Vu, country director Vietnam at Agoda said: “Our latest ranking of pet-friendly cities is a testament to our commitment to making travel inclusive for everyone, including our four-legged friends. Vietnam, with its welcoming culture and diverse landscapes, stands out as a pet paradise.”
The Traveller DMC pledges commitment to sustainable tourism in Singapore
Singapore-based The Traveller DMC has been awarded the GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification, signifying the company’s dedication to promoting responsible tourism practices within Singapore.
The GSTC certification, granted by Control Union Certifications, verifies that The Traveller DMC adheres to the stringent GSTC Tour Operator criteria. These standards ensure businesses operate with a focus on environmental well-being, cultural preservation, and fair economic practices.
The Traveller DMC pledges commitment to sustainable tourism in Singapore
The company has launched several initiatives to further solidify its commitment to sustainability. These include sustainable walking tours, prioritising hybrid vehicles, and implementing a CO2 tracking system to measure and analyse operational emissions
Moreover, the GSTC certification aligns with The Traveller DMC’s recently established three-year sustainability plan (2025-2028), which focuses on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and supporting local communities. Key initiatives include transitioning to LED lighting; promoting recycling and digital tools; collaborating with social enterprises; and contributing to impactful projects like the Garden City Fund and Sultan Mosque in Kampong Gelam.
Ryan Low, co-founder of The Traveller DMC, shared: “Achieving GSTC certification is a proud moment for us. It validates the hard work we’ve put into integrating sustainability into our operations. But more importantly, it’s a starting point. We’re committed to championing sustainable tourism practices that not only reduce our environmental impact, but also create meaningful experiences for travellers and support local communities.”
InterContinental Singapore has unveiled A Suite Experience, a package designed for guests to elevate their getaway with opulence, personalised service, and a shopping spree.
Guests who book A Suite Experience will enjoy a one-night stay in a suite, complete with premium welcome amenities, dining credits, and a S$300 (US$219) Takashimaya shopping voucher. The package is available for bookings in the King Junior Suite Club Lounge Access, One Bedroom Suite, Royal Suite, Ambassador Suite, or the Presidential Suite.
InterContinental Singapore makes suite stays sweeter
Adding to the allure, guests can enjoy privileged access to Club InterContinental, where gourmet breakfasts, afternoon teas, and evening cocktails are served in an intimate and refined setting.
Other inclusions in the package, excluding Junior Suite bookings, comprise complimentary front porch parking, and butler service upon request.
A Suite Experience is available for bookings from now to February 15, for stays through March 31. Rates start from S$600++ per package.
ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATE) 2025 will make its debut in Kota Kinabalu from June 19 to 21; Sipadan island, pictured
A private sector driven B2B travel fair focusing on the South-east Asian region will make its debut this June in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATE) 2025 is an initiative led by ASEAN’s travel champions, namely the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA), Malaysia Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), and AirAsia Group.
The three-day event from June 19 will offer both conference and travel exchange components, and is supported by Sabah’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment.
ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATE) 2025 will make its debut in Kota Kinabalu from June 19 to 21; Sipadan island, pictured
Sabah’s rich culture, heritage and tourism products will be highlighted at ATE 2025, which will also serve as a platform to showcase Sabah as a preferred destination for business events and leisure travel.
FATA president Tan Kok Liang emphasised the strategic importance of ATE 2025, aligning with the ASEAN governments’ preparations for the implementation of ASEAN Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights.
Expected to come into effect this year, Protocol 5 will grant South-east Asian airlines the ability to make stopovers at ASEAN member airports en-route to other destinations within the region. This landmark development is anticipated to significantly bolster intra-regional travel and connectivity.
Tan noted: “Protocol 5 will be a game-changer for air connectivity in ASEAN, benefiting both main and secondary cities across the region. We urge the travel trade across the region to seize the opportunity that ATE 2025 presents, leveraging the expanded air access to promote tour packages, destination experiences, and unique product offerings.”
He added that the increased accessibility provided by Protocol 5 is likely to trigger a surge in both leisure and business travel – segments that are aligned with ASEAN’s broader goals of fostering regional integration and driving economic growth through tourism.
Tan encouraged travel trade players to collaborate across borders to create innovative and competitive offerings that meet the needs of the expected influx of travellers.
He added: “Hosting ATE 2025 is especially fitting for Malaysia as we take on the ASEAN chairmanship this year. We will also invite Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim to officiate the event.”
ATE 2025 will target 230 hosted buyers from South-east Asia as well as China and India, underscoring the travel trade’s commitment to engaging with key markets outside region. Some 100 sellers from ASEAN member nations, including hoteliers, tour operators, product owners, and travel technology providers, will also participate.
Tan revealed plans for ATE to become an annual event, rotating among ASEAN member countries, to ensure consistent engagement and long-term growth of the region’s tourism sector.
He added that the initiative complements government-led efforts, such as the ASEAN Tourism Forum, which advances regional tourism cooperation.
Through its annual format and rotating host cities, the event aims to ensure consistent engagement and highlight ASEAN solidarity and commitment to advancing tourism and economic cooperation in South-east Asia.
The Philippines will showcase what the country has to offer at this year's ATF; Coron, Palawan, pictured
The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines and the Department of Tourism (DOT) will showcase the country’s tourism offerings at this year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), which kicks off on January 15 in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.
The Philippines will showcase what the country has to offer at this year’s ATF; Coron, Palawan, pictured
“We are excited to present the Philippines as a leading travel destination within ASEAN and the broader international market at ATF 2025,” said TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. “This forum is an invaluable opportunity to strengthen our partnerships with ASEAN neighbours and highlight the unique, world-class offerings of the Philippines in a global tourism landscape.”
The 2,405-key Londoner Grand is the first Luxury Collection hotel in Macau; the hotel’s Grand Terrace Suite, pictured
“We are excited to collaborate with Luxury Group by Marriott International to bring the first Luxury Collection Hotel to market. This hotel will serve as a gateway to Macao’s fascinating cultural heritage, offering guests an immersive journey into a city steeped in history, gastronomy and unforgettable experiences,” said Grant Chum, chief executive officer and president of Sands China.
Designed by award-winning firm Peter Silling & Associates, the hotel is a reflection of Georgian-inspired architecture. Meticulously crafted rooms and suites radiate an elegant London townhouse ambience and feature spacious open-plan living and dining areas. Select suites offer private terraces, dedicated children’s rooms, media rooms, and exclusive private plunge pools.
The hotel introduces five new dining concepts. Hampton Court will feature an international and Chinese buffet, while Chelsea Garden is an all-day dining outlet with local and regional Chinese cuisines featuring show kitchens. The Conservatory houses three unique areas: a dim sum restaurant and tearoom, a confectionery store, and a British pub bar. There will also be two signature Chinese restaurants, one serving authentic Cantonese fare and the other, Sichuan cuisine.
Londoner Grand will further enhance the positioning of The Londoner Macao as a resort choice for business and pleasure.
“We are thrilled to work with Sands China to bring the first Luxury Collection Hotel to Macao, a destination that continues to attract travellers across the globe,” said Gavin Yu, chief development officer, Greater China, Marriott International. “The highly anticipated hotel will blend Macao’s East-meets-West culture with The Luxury Collection’s distinctive perspective on luxury, providing our guests unparalleled access to a city rich with heritage, cuisine, and captivating experiences.”
Industry partners and guests came together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Park Lane Hong Kong, Autograph Collection, on January 9 at a grand finale party.
The event marked the hotel’s new opening as part of Marriot Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection.
From left: The Park Lane Hong Kong’s Luc Bollen, singer Stephanie Che, Victoria Park Hotels’ Charles Chan, singer Daniel Chan, Mrs Charles Chan
In attendance were Charles Chan, CEO of Victoria Park Hotels, Ned Wills, CEO of Laureus Sport For Good Foundation, Mao Yibing, president, Greater China of Marriot International; and renowned Canto pop singers Daniel Chan and Stephanie Che, who gave a performance.
Luc Bollen, the hotel’s general manager, said: “Reaching this impressive milestone is a testament to our dedication to exceptional service. We aim to create unforgettable experiences for our guests and leave life-long impressions in everything we do.”
Tour around Kuching's heritage and cultural sites in a sustainable way
Tourism Malaysia has launched the Borneo Green Bike Tour, an eco-friendly initiative by Smart Leisure & Travels that offers a zero-emission experience, allowing travellers to explore Kuching’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage while minimising their environmental impact.
Tour around Kuching’s heritage and cultural sites in a sustainable way
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks in Kuching on electric motorbikes, enjoying a scenic and sustainable journey that promotes responsible travel practices, preserves the environment, and offers a deeper connection to the culture and landscapes of Sarawak.
The Borneo Green Bike Tour is a 3.5 to four-hour journey suitable for all fitness levels, with English and Mandarin-speaking guides leading guests through Kuching’s iconic landmarks.
The tour covers a wide array of sights, including the historic Brooke Monument, Kai Joo Lane, the Chinese History Museum, and the Kuching South City Council, and much more.
The tour offers two options: the Self-Riding option, priced from 150 ringgit (US$33) per person, allows travellers to ride the bikes themselves, while the With Rider option, starting at 290 ringgit per person, includes a driver. Both options come with a knowledgeable guide and feature eco-friendly electric motor bikes that provide a comfortable and sustainable way to enjoy sightseeing while reducing carbon emissions.
Grand Hyatt Jakarta and Keraton at The Plaza have appointed Rajat Bhatia as the new director of sales & marketing.
With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry across Asia and the Middle East, he brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of success in driving revenue growth and strategic planning.
Bhatia previously served as cluster director of sales & distribution at Anantara Hotels & Resorts in Bangkok, Thailand, from 2019 to 2022, where he spearheaded initiatives of market leadership and launched cost-effective solutions to navigate dynamic market conditions.
Most recently, Rajat was director of sales & marketing at The Westin Jakarta from 2023 to 2024, where he initiated several campaigns with integrated marketing strategies and high-end brand collaborations.
Bhatia previously served as cluster director of sales & distribution at Anantara Hotels & Resorts in Bangkok, Thailand, from 2019 to 2022, where he spearheaded initiatives of market leadership and launched cost-effective solutions to navigate dynamic market conditions.
