Winners Recognized for Achievements in Marketing, Cultural Preservation, and Sustainability
The efforts of 12 industry players in elevating Asean tourism were celebrated at an awards ceremony held in Johor Baru.
Award Ceremony Highlights
The winners, honored at the 34th Asean Tourism Association (Aseanta) Excellence Awards, were celebrated for their achievements in diverse categories.
Praise for Winners from Aseanta President
Aseanta President Eddy Krismeidi Sumawilaga expressed his admiration for the winners, recognizing their excellence in marketing, cultural preservation, sustainability, and innovation. He emphasized that their accomplishments reflect resilience and creativity, driving progress in the tourism industry.
“These winners have set new benchmarks and inspired others,” Sumawilaga added.
Aseanta’s Future Initiatives
Sumawilaga discussed Aseanta’s plans to further enhance tourism in the region. Key initiatives include:
- The launch of the Asean Explorer Pass in 2024, designed to simplify travel across member countries.
- The Asean Travel Exchange networking event, set for June in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Category Winners Announced
The winners were honored in various categories, showcasing the breadth and quality of tourism offerings in Asean.
Best Asean Travel Article
AboutAsia Travel took top honors in the Best Asean Travel Article category.
Best Asean Tourism Photo
The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) was recognized for photographing the Best Asean Tourism Photo.
Best Asean Marketing and Promotional Programme
InterContinental Singapore was awarded the Best Asean Marketing and Promotional Programme.
Best Asean New Tourism Attraction
Resorts World Genting won for the Best Asean New Tourism Attraction.
Best Asean Hotel Package
Raffles Hotel was named the Best Asean Hotel Package.
Best Asean Cultural Preservation Effort
Locco Malaysia received the award for the Best Asean Cultural Preservation Effort.
Best Asean Airline Programme
Sunlight Air earned the Best Asean Airline Programme title.
Best Asean Cruise Programme
Suka Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd were recognized for the Best Asean Cruise Programme.
Best Asean Tour Operator
Radiant Tours and Travel was celebrated as the Best Asean Tour Operator.
Best Asean Eco-Lodge Programme
Borneo Trails Tour and Travel Sdn Bhd earned recognition for having the Best Asean Eco-Lodge Programme.
Best Asean Sustainability Programme
ParkRoyal Collection was named the Best Asean Sustainability Programme.
Best Asean Convention Centre
The Sabah International Convention Centre was named the Best Asean Convention Centre.
Role of the Awards
Aseanta Excellence Awards Chairman Chhay Sivlin explained the significance of the awards in highlighting South-East Asia’s rich tourism destinations and enterprises.
“By recognizing and promoting these achievers, we aim to inspire others towards excellence and elevate tourism in Asean,” Sivlin said.
The nominees this year spanned tour operators, eco-lodges, cultural heritage projects, and innovative marketing campaigns from all 10 Asean member states.
Winners’ Reactions
Andrew Booth, founder of AboutAsia Travel, emphasized the award’s reflection of a focus on Cambodia’s unique offerings, aiming to encourage responsible and sustainable travel for over 16 years.
Ryna Yvette Brito-Garcia, CEO of Sunlight Air, expressed gratitude, highlighting the award as recognition of their efforts in promoting seamless tourism in the Philippines.
Hosting Organizations
The Aseanta Excellence Awards were hosted by the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) and Tourism Malaysia.
Conclusion
The Aseanta Excellence Awards surpassed expectations, showcasing the passion, creativity, and dedication of individuals and organizations committed to delivering unforgettable experiences for travelers across the Asean region.
This celebration of excellence is a testament to the resilience and innovation driving Asean tourism forward, setting a high bar for the industry in the years to come.
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