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Current crises underline importance of intra-ASEAN travel development

Industry opinion leaders at the virtual 10th ASEAN Tourism Research Association (ATRA) Tourism Forum on Tuesday have reiterated the importance of moving away from a heavy reliance on traditional longhaul markets as travel and tourism resumes, and to focus on strengthening intra-ASEAN travel instead.

The need to focus on regional markets is emphasised by the impact of the Ukraine-Russia war on Asia’s tourism performance. Russia’s invasion has resulted in surging crude oil prices that have pushed up longhaul airfares and prices of goods, ultimately dampening people’s travel and spending appetites.

Speaking at the Unlock the borders & Reboot ASEAN Tourism webinar, Imtiaz Muqbil, executive editor, Travel Impact Newswire, said: “Who knows how long this current recovery phase is going to last, depending on what happens in Europe over the next few days. I think intra-ASEAN tourism will be absolutely critical for the future of this region.”

Imtiaz said the South-east Asia region enjoys good air connectivity and both full-service and low-cost carriers cater to different budgets. With the exception of Myanmar, the rest of ASEAN member countries are “pretty much at peace”.

In 2019, intra-region travel contributed 51.7 per cent of tourists arrivals within South-east Asia. In the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic, this dropped to 9.19 per cent.

Imtiaz believes that the focus of tourism reboot in ASEAN should be on driving the tourism numbers up to a comfortable level.

Agreeing, moderator Puvaneswaran Kunasekaran, who is also ATRA honorary treasurer, called on ASEAN policymakers to develop policies that will further boost intra-ASEAN travel.

Fellow panellist, Pham Ha, CEO & Founder, Lux Group, Vietnam, shared that initiatives should be developed to inculcate a sense of pride in citizens to be part of the ASEAN community, and to encourage them to travel and learn about the diverse heritage and culture in the region.

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FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES & LEISURE MANAGEMENT 

Tourism forum on "future tourism in asean: challenges and opportunities".

ASEAN Tourism Research Association (ATRA), together with Taylor's University, Malaysia and Centre of Research and Innovation in Tourism, recently co-organized the 8th ATRA Tourism Forum entitled “Future Tourism in ASEAN: Challenges and Opportunities”. The webinar consisted of an excellent mixture of people from academia and industry. The keynote was delivered by Prof. Dr. Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan, Executive Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management and President of ATRA. The session was moderated by Dr. Puvaneswaran Kunasekaran, Senior Lecturer from Taylor’s University, School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events and Honorary Treasurer, ASEAN Tourism Research Association (ATRA) and hosted by Dr. Jenny H. Panchal from James Cook University & Deputy Secretary of ATRA.

Key representatives from the Hospitality and Tourism sectors were invited to share their views. Esteemed panel members comprised of Mr. Eddy Krismeidi Soemawiaga, Deputy President of ASEANTA; Prof. Datuk Seri Dr. Victor Wee, Professor from Taylor’s University and Secretary-General of ATRA; Ms. Hannah Pearson, Founding Partner of Pear Anderson and Co-host at The South East Asia Travel Show and Mr. Gary Bowerman, Director of Check-In Asia and Co-host at The South East Asia Travel Show.

According to UNWTO, it will take three years for the industry to reach its level in 2019, and it still depends on how good the vaccine mobilization will be. Nonetheless, domestic tourism, digital tourism, and intraregional travel offer the industry a way out of the slump and gradually recoup its losses while waiting for the vaccines to work and for pre-COVID normalcy to return. Recovery of tourism and future sustainable development for countries is only possible with proactive policies in place. This forum explored the readiness to face ASEAN's potential challenges and opportunities in the post-vaccination period to make tourism resilient.

Challenges such as lack of tourists’ confidence, loss of jobs, closure of hotels, and resilience of tourism businesses and opportunities such as dynamic tourism products, vaccine visa or health passport, travel bubble and domestic tourism shift were the critical themes highlighted in this forum. The speakers generally stressed that the industry should strive to adapt to the changing nature of future travelers. Apart from that, the empowerment of travel agencies is emphasized to generate immediate income for industry survival.

Commentaires

ASEAN Tourism Research Conference (ATRAC) 2019

Hoa Sen University I Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam I 18 - 20 January 2019

"ASEAN – Sustainable Connectivity, Boundless Prosperity"

 28-29 January 2018  |  Prince of Songkla University, Phuket  | Thailand

ASEAN Tourism Research Conference 2018

ATRAC 2018 was successfully held at PSU, Phuket, Thailand

The ASEAN Tourism Research Association Conference (ATRAC) 2018 has come close to an end. The conference theme of ASEAN – Sustainable Connectivity, Boundless Prosperity  was timely to reflect on a number of important questions on the growth of tourism. It is doubtless that tourism is an economic driver playing a significant role on the prosperity of many countries including ASEAN. But from the perspective, such a question as how to secure lasting and sustainable tourism growth in our region still remains a crucial issue. A number of papers presented in this conference did seek to investigate this challenging question so I hope that the participants have had fruitful discussions on the issue, shared and learned new ideas from one another, which they could adopt to further improve their work in this important area. 

However, that is not the only single purpose of this conference as we hope that the participants could also gain new experience, friendship, sustainable connections, and networking which we believe would last very long and turn to become meaningful collaborations. Given that, we would like to rest assured that the scholars and researchers in this area could find a good platform to deliver their stimulating work to a great audience.

I would like to remind you that many prominent scholars and researchers in tourism today, many years ago, built their research profile and inspired themselves by participating in this similar kind of conference, getting to know others who they could share their common research interest and support one another. Therefore, I would like to inspire all the researchers here today to keep on their research work and actively continue to connect and collaborate with one another for the sustainability of tourism and for the boundless prosperity in the region. 

I would like to express my gratitude to the ATRA for offering Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism or FHT an honor to host this conference. We are very delighted as hosting an international conference is considered a perfect way to celebrate the university's 50th anniversary. Prince of Songkla University is going to organize a series of events throughout the year and this conference is one of the very first events we hold early in the year for this special occasion.  I would also like to thank all the participants for sharing their interesting work, being part of the university’s celebration and making the event a success. Last but not least I'd like to thank all the FHT colleagues, staff and students, who have been working tirelessly and perfectly for this event. Without their dedication, this conference wouldn't be possible. All of FHT members are now very pleased that the event has turned out to be successful. We are very happy to learn that many of you have enjoyed our interesting keynote speakers, the beautiful cultural performance, the interesting presentations and our hospitality.

And see you next year for ATRAC 2019.

Thank you very much. ขอบคุณมากค่ะ!

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prathana Kannaovakun, Conference Chair

Philippines

ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA)

The ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) was formed on 27th March 1971 as a non-profit tourism association comprising 35 members from both public and private tourism sector organizations, such as national travel associations, national hotel associations, airlines and National Tourism Organisations from ASEAN Countries. ASEANTA plays an integral role in shaping travel and tourism development within the ASEAN region inline with the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan with following objectives:

• Unite our members in common purpose, working in a close bond of cooperation, fellowship and assistance in furthering and protecting the interest of our members.

• Strive towards the attainment of the highest standards of service and facilities for travelers and tourists.

• Uphold the dignity and ethics of the tourism business and strive towards its professionalism.

• Foster and maintain the best of relationships among the ASEAN countries and their people.

• Encourage, support and help develop tourism into and within the ASEAN region.

• Act as a negotiating body for members of the Association and to make recommendations to government departments or Agencies or other bodies in relation to any measure which may be taken involving members and/or the travel industry in ASEAN countries.

• Serve on or offer assistance to any government, statutory or International body in connection with tourism matters.

Website: http://www.aseanta.org/

© Copyright 2022 | ASEAN BUSINESS ADVISORY COUNCIL  |  Contact Us

Country chairmanships

We provide private sector feedback and guidance to boost ASEAN’s efforts towards economic integration.

Brunei Darussalam

Vice President of International Relations, Local Business Development and Secretary of the Economic Research and Standardization Committee and CEC of UMFCCI.

Born and Educated with an engineering degree from London, returned to Myanmar in 1990 to start his entrepreneur career, his major business is in directories and research now employing over 700 staff in 8 offices in Myanmar. He is acknowledged as one of the pioneer of marketing in Myanmar with his extensive experience in managing the advertising and research services needed by nearly all the major consumer brands and non-government institutions. As such he is the joint venture partner for Nielsen the world’s largest market research agency.

He dedicates most of his time promoting Myanmar and as one of the founding members of UMFCCI when it became a Federation. He is a Council member for Myanmar with the ASEAN Business Council, Greater Mekong Sub region business council and ACMECs and has participated in international forums seminars for over a decade.

On social responsibility he restarted the Rotary Club in Myanmar, Chair of Market Research Association of Myanmar, and the Development Director of the Yangon Heritage Club and was secretary of the Presidential advisory council NESAC with the last government. Additionally, currently he is promoted as a Director of GMS –BC (Greater MEKOUNK SUBRIGION Business Council)

Mr. Thaung Tin is the founder and the chairman of Knowledge Management and Dedication (KMD) Co. Ltd which is one of the largest ICT companies in Myanmar offering ICT education, product distribution and system integration services. He is also serving as the Vice President of Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI).

Mr Thaung Tin served as the deputy minister for Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Myanmar from August 2012 to March 2016.

During his tenure with the government, he was instrumental in initiation and implementation of Myanmar telecom reform plan that includes liberalization of telecom market, transformation of incumbent telecom operator and setting up the independent regulatory organization. The telecom liberalization process made mobile SIM penetration from less than 10% in 2012 to over 80% in 2016.

He also actively involved in several social and professional organizations; lecturer at University of Computer Studies (1984-1990), Secretary of Myanmar Computer Federation (2000-2012), Vice President of Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (2005-2012 and present), and Country representative for Asean Business Advisory Council (2005-2012).

Currently he is servicing as a country representative for Asean Business Advisory Council, East Asia Business Currently, and a member of Myanmar Engineering Council. He is the private sector representative at e-government steering committee and a member of Digital Economy Development Committee. He holds a Master degree in Computer Science from University of Computer Studies, Yangon and Bachelor degree in Electronic & Communication Engineering from Rangoon Institute of Technology. He studied at Harvard Kennedy School in 2015

Chairman, ASEAN-BAC Myanmar President, The Republic of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI)

Mr. Zaw Min Win is a prominent businessman in the business community and high profile public circle of Myanmar. He has a great aspiration to lead the Myanmar Private sector business community working with the government sector with a view to bring about all-inclusive economic development and growth, achieving shared prosperity for all.

With a Master of Science degree from Yangon University, he is one of the old veterans of the chamber by joining the UMCCI since 1990. He became a well-known business personality with good reputation, integrity, credibility and capability; hence he was elected as the President of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) by a majority vote of the members in 2016.

In his private business capacity, he is serving as the Chairman of Smart & Win Business Development Co., Ltd. engaged in Business Consultancy Services and Business Development Activities. Additionally, he is one of the shareholders and board member of the United Diamond Motor Co., Ltd. whose main business is importing, marketing and distribution of automobile and auto parts. He is also serving as a senior advisor of the Japan leading Retail AEON Co., Ltd in Myanmar.

He is an eminent leader not only in Myanmar business community, but also in International Business Chambers and Associations circle. He is currently, serving as the Country Chair for ASEAN Business Advisory Council, East Asia Business Council (EABC), ACMECS Business Council and, recently becomes the chairman of GMS Business Council for the term 2022-2024. Currently, he also actively and enthusiastically participates as an active committee member of the National Level MSME Development Central Committee and Patron of various trade and service associations, as well as in the regional business organization in promoting business and the growth of MSMEs

Nguyen Thi Nga

Chairman, Southeast Asia Joint Stock Commercial Bank

Dr. Douglas Foo

Chairman, Sakae Holdings Ltd

Zaw Min Win

President, Republic of The Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry

Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon

Chairman, Royal Selangor International Sdn Bhd

Chanthachone Vongsay

President, Lao Business Association

Thanongsinh Kanlagna

CEO, Datacom President, Lao ICT Commerce Association (LICA)

Managing Director, Adinin Group of Companies

Dr Doan Duy Khuong

ASEAN BAC Chair 2010, 2020 Vice President, Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Regional Managing Director, PT. Mayora Indah Tbk

Pham Dinh Doan

Chairman, Phu Thai Group

Vathit Chokwatana

Vice Chairman, Federation of Thai Industries

Kobsak Duangdee

Secretary General, Thai Bankers’ Association

Visit Limlurcha

Director, Board of Trade of Thailand

Tharmapalan

Executive Director, ASEAN-BAC Malaysia

Phone : +603 6211 2511 Fax : +603 6211 4533 Email : [email protected]

Managing Director, Eng and Co. LLC

Dr. Robert Yap

ASEAN BAC Chair 2007, 2018 Chairman, YCH Group Pte Ltd

Michael Tan

President, LT Group

YB FDr. Ar. Siti Rozaimeriyanty DSLJ Hj Abd Rahman

ASEAN BAC Chair 2021 Director cum Principal Architect of Eco Bumi Arkitek

Neak Oknha Kith Meng

ASEAN BAC Chair 2012, 2022 Chairman, Royal Group of Companies President, Cambodia Chamber of Commerce

Oknha Van Sou Ieng

Chairman, Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC)

Oknha Sok Piseth

CEO, G Gear Co., Ltd Vice-President, Cambodia Chamber of Commerce

Adrian Gunadi

Co-Founder & CEO Investree

Bernardino Moningka Vega

President Director, PT. Pembangkit Energi Mandiri

Oudet Souvannavong

ASEAN BAC Chair 2004, 2016 President, Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI)

Raja Singham

Managing Director, BAC Education Group

Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Mohd Munir Abdul Majid

ASEAN BAC Chair 2015 Chairman, CARI ASEAN Research and Advocacy

Joey Ma. A. Concepcion III

ASEAN BAC Chair 2017 Philippine Presidential Adv for Entrepreneurship Founder, Go Negosyo President and CEO, RFM Corp

George T. Barcelon

Chairman, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Haslina Taib

CEO, Dynamik Technologies Sdn Bhd

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M’sia eyes Chinese Muslim tourists

Saturday, 13 Apr 2024

Related News

Asean News Headlines at 9pm on Monday (April 1, 2023)

Pahang gears up to attract more muslim tourists, asean news headlines at 9pm on saturday (march 9, 2023).

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s travel industry is seeking to attract more Chinese Muslim tourists as the country gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 with the target of becoming an umrah destination in the region.

The Islamic Tourism Centre of Malaysia (ITC) has found a marked increase in Muslim tourists from China with 26,534 arrivals last year and is anticipating 40,172 of them for the first quarter of 2024.

“Efforts by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry such as promotional activities, visa easing and enhanced air connectivity specifically tailored to the Chinese market are credited with invigorating tourism flow,” said ITC director-general Nizran Noordin.

“With the widespread availability of halal food, mosques and surau in public spaces, Malaysia presents itself as an incredibly inclusive and welcoming destination for Muslim travellers.”

ITC’s role is to assist the ministry through strategic tourism research and market intelligence as well as provide training and capacity-building services in relation to Islamic tourism.

“The ITC’s Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) programme plays a pivotal role in cementing Malaysia’s position as a preferred Muslim tourist destination,” said Nizran when contacted.

The programme has specific guidelines to help tourism industry players position themselves strategically in the Muslim tourism market. This, he said, would ensure that the travellers are provided with services that align with Islamic practices.

The MFAR guidelines are currently available for two schemes – tourist accommodation premises and travel operating businesses.“ITC will soon develop guidelines for eight others, namely spa and wellness centres, medical facilities, transportation hubs, tourism products, shopping malls, theme and entertainment parks, Rest and Relax areas (R&R) and trade and convention centres,” he said.

Nizran added that ITC aims to enrol more industry players in the MFAR programme to enhance the tourism ecosystem and called for input from government bodies and travel agencies to meet specific market needs.

“Tourists often allocate a big portion of their budget for shopping, creating ample opportunities for businesses to meet the demand of Muslim travellers for consumer goods. These include Muslimah fashion and active wear, cosmetics, personal care products and halal pharmaceuticals,” he said.

Nizran also said Muslim travellers, particularly the younger demographic, have a keen interest in local culture.

“This presents an opportunity for tourism players to develop tailored itineraries that emphasise local experiences such as cooking classes showcasing regional cuisine, tours of herb gardens and other interactive activities,” he said.

There was positive feedback from a China imam familiarisation trip recently, highlighting Malaysia’s hospitality and ability to cater to Muslims’ needs.

“China remains a strategic market with its 30 million-strong Muslim population. The Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (Mica) has teamed up with ITC to develop tourism packages suited for Muslim visitors,” added Nizran.ITC, he said, would also enhance the capabilities of 211 tourist guides through specialised training so that they become Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guides.

Nizran also touched on the 50th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations this year.

“The timing is right to move into this market. The market in China is huge and ITC would like to encourage more tourism industry players to look into the potential and opportunities,” he added.

Malaysia has maintained a top spot in the Global Muslim Travel Index since its inception in 2015.

Separately, Mica president Datuk Dr Angie Ng said Chinese Muslim tourists have a deep appreciation for Malaysia’s Muslim culture, food, shopping and the Ramadan experience.

She said they come to Malaysia to experience a different Muslim dietary culture including over 200 types of kuih-muih offered at hotel Ramadan buffets.

“In Negri Sembilan, they were surprised with a sheep head dish, which offers a completely different flavour.

“One tourist shared that during his week-long stay, he visited different hotels to try various halal dishes daily,” Ng said, adding that Chinese Muslim tourists are captivated by the stunning architecture of the mosques here.“They also adore our beaches and are fond of buying colourful traditional Malay attire as gifts for family and friends,” she added.

Malaysian Association of Hotels president Datin Christina Toh said the hotel industry would continuously enhance its facilities to meet the growing demand of Muslim tourists as the market flourishes.

“Part of our star-rating hotel requirement includes at least one halal-certified outlet and the presence of Qibla signs,” she said, adding that some hotels can convert meeting rooms into prayer rooms while others provide shuttle services to nearby mosques.

Toh also said Chinese tourists, including free independent travellers, are increasing due to visa-free entry and improved accessibility.

To break the language barrier, she said with advancements in AI and mobile technology, information can be translated easily to assist travellers.

“Malaysia’s reputation as a Muslim-friendly destination is well established,” she added.

Related stories:

Tags / Keywords: Chinese Muslim Tourist , Malaysia , China , Tourism , Motac , Islamic Tourism Centre

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