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	<title>ASSOCIATIONS Archives - TTR Weekly</title>
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	<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/category/news/associations/</link>
	<description>News for Southeast Asia&#039;s travel planners. Latest news, travel news, B2B news, Southeast Asia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Brunei.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 23:09:30 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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	<item>
		<title>PATA partners with Chimelong Group</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/pata-partners-with-chimelong-group/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[THAILAND]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=270078</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>BANGKOK, 10 July 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) welcomes Guangzhou Chimelong Group Co Ltd, a leading Chinese theme park group, as the association’s newest ‘Preferred Partner’.  A prominent cultural tourism conglomerate providing leisure and MICE offerings, Chimelong Group aims to support the Asia-Pacific visitor economy through tourism research and the exchange of data [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/pata-partners-with-chimelong-group/">PATA partners with Chimelong Group</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">BANGKOK, 10 July 2026: The <a href="https://pata.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=40516b5a300441f576f4dca37&amp;id=cd79ffcbc6&amp;e=844658f2fc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacific Asia Travel Association</a> (PATA) welcomes Guangzhou Chimelong Group Co Ltd, a leading Chinese theme park group, as the association’s newest ‘Preferred Partner’. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A prominent cultural tourism conglomerate providing leisure and MICE offerings, Chimelong Group aims to support the Asia-Pacific visitor economy through tourism research and the exchange of data and intelligence to drive initiatives that advance responsible tourism practices in the region.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="512" height="238" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-116.png" alt="" class="wp-image-270082" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-116.png 512w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-116-300x139.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo credit: PATA.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“As one of Asia’s most innovative tourism enterprises, Chimelong Group has demonstrated how world-class attractions and experiences can inspire travel, create economic opportunities, and contribute to destination development,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Key partnership elements&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Enhance the value and perceived value of the Asia Pacific visitor economy.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Strengthen engagement between governments and national tourism organisations.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Promote the benefits of reliable and comprehensive tourism intelligence.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">By bringing together PATA’s industry expertise and its global network with Chimelong Group’s innovative approach to cultural tourism and hospitality, the partnership creates opportunities for future cooperation to support the long-term growth and success of the visitor economy across Asia Pacific.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1702" height="824" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114.png" alt="" class="wp-image-270080" style="aspect-ratio:2.0655499225303577;width:493px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114.png 1702w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114-300x145.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114-600x290.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114-768x372.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114-1536x744.png 1536w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114-696x337.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114-1068x517.png 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-114-868x420.png 868w" sizes="(max-width: 1702px) 100vw, 1702px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo credit: Chimelong Group. </em><a href="https://www.chimelong.com/groupen/about/"><em>About us|Group-En</em></a><em>.</em>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>About Chimelong Group</em><br><em>Chimelong Group, established in 1989, is a cultural tourism enterprise operating theme parks, resort hotels, cultural performances, dining, business conventions, and educational programmes.  Over the past 36 years, the group has developed three world-renowned cultural tourism resorts: Chimelong Guangzhou Resort, Chimelong Hengqin Resort, and Chimelong Qingyuan Resort. </em><br><em>Together, they feature seven major theme parks, nine resort hotels (with over 10,000 rooms), and three international circus theatres. It is ranked among the top theme park groups globally, and Chimelong welcomes over 40 million visitors each year.</em></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: PATA)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/pata-partners-with-chimelong-group/">PATA partners with Chimelong Group</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>MATTA: Tourism vehicles miss diesel subsidies</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/matta-tourism-vehicles-miss-diesel-subsidies/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MALAYSIA]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=270070</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>KUALA LUMPUR, 10 July 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has cautioned that excluding tourism transport vehicles from the government’s diesel subsidy programme will impact Malaysians as well as tour operators. MATTA acknowledges the government’s commitment to fiscal prudence but firmly disputes the recent characterisation by the Minister of Finance II, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/matta-tourism-vehicles-miss-diesel-subsidies/">MATTA: Tourism vehicles miss diesel subsidies</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">KUALA LUMPUR, 10 July 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has cautioned that excluding tourism transport vehicles from the government’s diesel subsidy programme will impact Malaysians as well as tour operators.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">MATTA acknowledges the government’s commitment to fiscal prudence but firmly disputes the recent characterisation by the Minister of Finance II, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, that diesel subsidies for tourism transport operators would only benefit foreign tourists.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">MATTA strongly believes that a broader view of how these vehicles are used would support the case for their inclusion in the scheme.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Tourism vehicles serve both Malaysian and international tourists every day. Licensed tourism transport operators provide services not only for inbound visitors but also for domestic holidaymakers, school groups, corporate events, incentive travel, religious pilgrimages, educational tours, and community programmes.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It is therefore incorrect to assume that diesel subsidies for tourism transport operators would benefit only foreign tourists.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To say this subsidy only helps foreigners ignores the reality of how our tourism transport industry operates. This decision, if left unchanged, will raise fares for Malaysians and may even force them to consider utilising unlicensed service providers,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The removal of diesel subsidies will directly increase operating costs for tourism transport operators, which will inevitably be passed on through higher fares and more expensive travel packages for both Malaysians and international visitors.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the country accelerates its Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, higher transport costs threaten to undercut the very affordability that drives domestic tourism and inbound arrivals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">More affordable tourism services would encourage Malaysians to explore destinations within the country rather than travel abroad, while also enhancing Malaysia’s appeal to international visitors.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This would support the growth of both domestic and inbound tourism, in line with the government’s objectives to strengthen the tourism sector.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Higher tourism activity generates a multiplier effect throughout the economy. Increased visitor arrivals and domestic travel create greater business opportunities for hotels, restaurants, attractions, retailers, transport operators, and local communities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This translates into higher business revenue, more employment opportunities, increased tax collections, greater foreign exchange earnings, and stronger economic growth. In the longer term, these economic benefits could outweigh the costs of providing targeted diesel subsidies to licensed tourism transport operators.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This issue is especially significant for destinations such as Sabah, where tourism relies heavily on road transportation due to the state’s vast geography and dispersed attractions.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">High transport costs risk making destinations across Malaysia less competitive and could discourage both domestic and international travel, particularly as the nation intensifies its Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tourism is an intensely competitive industry. Malaysia is competing directly with neighbouring Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, many of which continue to provide various forms of support to their tourism sectors. Any increase in operating costs reduces Malaysia’s competitiveness and may divert visitors to alternative destinations.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Since the onset of the global energy price crisis, MATTA has worked closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) to address the challenges faced by the tourism industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">MATTA has presented its case to the Ministry of Finance for a review of the diesel subsidy programme’s exclusions.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>MATTA’s request for a review</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Review the exclusion of licensed tourism transport operators from the diesel subsidy programme, considering the broader Malaysian public they serve.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Engage with MOTAC and industry stakeholders to explore a targeted, well-governed subsidy mechanism for licensed operators.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Consider tourism transport as a strategic enabler of both domestic mobility and the tourism economy, in support of VM 2026.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The government has repeatedly emphasised the importance of tourism as a key contributor to the national economy. Ensuring that tourism transport operators remain competitive is fully aligned with that objective and with the aspirations of Visit Malaysia 2026.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: MATTA)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/matta-tourism-vehicles-miss-diesel-subsidies/">MATTA: Tourism vehicles miss diesel subsidies</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>WTTC and UNEP forge landmark alliance</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/wttc-and-unep-forge-landmark-alliance/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EUROPE]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=269698</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>SINGAPORE, 3 July 2026: The World Travel &#38; Tourism Council (WTTC) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), establishing a framework for cooperation to accelerate the transition of the global Travel &#38; Tourism sector towards a more sustainable, circular and resilient future. The two-year agreement brings together [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/wttc-and-unep-forge-landmark-alliance/">WTTC and UNEP forge landmark alliance</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">SINGAPORE, 3 July 2026: The World Travel &amp; Tourism Council (WTTC) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), establishing a framework for cooperation to accelerate the transition of the global Travel &amp; Tourism sector towards a more sustainable, circular and resilient future.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The two-year agreement brings together UNEP&#8217;s environmental leadership and global sustainability expertise with WTTC&#8217;s network of the world&#8217;s leading Travel &amp; Tourism companies to drive meaningful action across circular economy solutions, nature conservation, sustainable food systems and the fight against plastic pollution.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="600" height="363" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-37-600x363.png" alt="" class="wp-image-269706" style="width:490px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-37-600x363.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-37-300x181.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-37-768x464.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-37-696x421.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-37-695x420.png 695w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/image-37.png 834w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo credit: WTTC. (Left) WTTC&nbsp; President &amp; CEO, Gloria Guevara and (right) United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director Inger Andersen.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A key outcome of the agreement is the creation of structured opportunities for WTTC Members to participate voluntarily in UNEP flagship sustainability programmes, particularly those addressing environmental action, plastics, and food waste. This will enable companies to move faster from commitment to measurable results.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Through the collaboration, WTTC and UNEP will also strengthen joint advocacy and global policy leadership, working together to influence international tourism policy and develop recommendations that create an enabling environment for industry-wide sustainability action.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The MoU establishes a structured joint work programme, with agreed priorities and regular high-level coordination. Governance will be supported through designated focal points, the identification of priority projects, the development of a joint work plan, and ongoing annual and technical working meetings to ensure effective implementation.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The partnership will further enhance global visibility for both organisations, enabling joint participation in international fora, collaboration on events, and expanded knowledge-sharing opportunities, while strengthening engagement between the UN system and the private sector.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Under the agreement, WTTC and UNEP will collaborate to:</strong></p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Promote nature-positive and regenerative tourism approaches that protect, restore and finance biodiversity and ecosystems.</li>



<li>Advance circular economy solutions and help eliminate unnecessary and problematic plastics.</li>



<li>Expand action on food waste reduction, supporting businesses to measure, report and reduce food waste.</li>



<li>Strengthen industry engagement on water stewardship, resource efficiency, energy sustainability, ocean and coastal conservation, and sustainable food systems.</li>



<li>Support capacity-building programmes, pilot projects and implementation initiatives.</li>



<li>Align industry action with international best practice and UNEP guidance through technical collaboration, knowledge sharing and practical implementation support.</li>
</ul>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WTTC President &amp; CEO Gloria Guevara said: &#8220;Travel &amp; Tourism is one of the world&#8217;s most effective forces for sustainable development. Through this partnership with UNEP, we are bringing together global leadership, industry expertise and practical action to help businesses accelerate environmental action, reduce waste, protect biodiversity and create lasting positive impact for destinations and communities. Together, we can ensure that the growth of Travel &amp; Tourism goes hand in hand with a planet that sustains great travel experiences.&#8221;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As global Travel &amp; Tourism continues its growth trajectory, WTTC and UNEP recognise the urgent need to decouple growth from environmental degradation and ensure tourism becomes a force for environmental resilience and ecosystem restoration.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The partnership will run through June 2028 and be supported by regular strategic dialogue, technical exchanges, and collaborative initiatives designed to deliver practical impact for businesses, destinations, and communities worldwide.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: WTTC)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/wttc-and-unep-forge-landmark-alliance/">WTTC and UNEP forge landmark alliance</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>MATTA elects executive council</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/matta-elects-executive-council/</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MALAYSIA]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=269492</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>KUALA LUMPUR, 1 July 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) announced its newly elected Executive Council (EXCO) members for the 2026-2029 term at its 51st Annual General Meeting, held on 29 June at the World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur (WTC KL). The election marks a renewed chapter for MATTA as the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/matta-elects-executive-council/">MATTA elects executive council</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">KUALA LUMPUR, 1 July 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) announced its newly elected Executive Council (EXCO) members for the 2026-2029 term at its 51st Annual General Meeting, held on 29 June at the World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur (WTC KL).</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The election marks a renewed chapter for MATTA as the Association enters its next phase of growth, advocacy and industry development under a refreshed leadership team.&nbsp;</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="964" height="664" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335.png" alt="" class="wp-image-269496" style="width:468px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335.png 964w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335-300x207.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335-600x413.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335-768x529.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335-218x150.png 218w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335-696x479.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335-610x420.png 610w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-335-100x70.png 100w" sizes="(max-width: 964px) 100vw, 964px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo credit: MATTA.</em> <em>Newly elected Executive Council (EXCO) members for the 2026-2029 term.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Reflecting the confidence of MATTA members, Nigel Wong Chun Teim has been re-elected as President for a second term after leading the Association through a period of significant transformation and industry advancement.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The newly elected EXCO represents a balanced combination of continuity and renewal, retaining seven experienced leaders from the previous term while welcoming three new members who bring fresh perspectives and expertise to strengthen the Association’s leadership.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This composition underscores MATTA’s commitment to building on past achievements while embracing the new ideas and energy required to meet the industry’s ever-evolving needs. The leadership team will continue to drive the Association’s efforts to strengthen member engagement, advance industry advocacy, support innovation, and position Malaysia as a competitive and future-ready tourism destination on the world stage.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">During the 2023–2026 term, MATTA has achieved significant milestones that have reshaped its role as the leading voice of Malaysia’s travel and tourism industry through strategic initiatives benefiting its members and the wider tourism ecosystem.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the industry celebrated MATTA’s 50-year milestone as a leading trade association, the organisation introduced the MATTA Eco &amp; Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI), a forward-thinking initiative designed to position Malaysian travel businesses at the forefront of sustainable and responsible tourism practices.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">During the term, MATTA acknowledged the growing demand for specialised travel experiences. It successfully tapped into niche industry segments including sports tourism and Muslim-friendly tourism, creating dedicated platforms and resources to help members capture these high-value market opportunities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Association also prioritised safeguarding the industry by introducing TRUST, an industry advocacy initiative supported by the AI-powered TravelWatch.ai platform. Designed to strengthen industry accountability, improve reporting mechanisms and support efforts to address illegal tourism activities in Malaysia, the initiative reflects MATTA’s commitment to embracing technology and innovation while working collaboratively with industry stakeholders and government agencies to strengthen professionalism and consumer confidence.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The previous term also saw multiple high-impact Business-to-Business events that strengthened ties between Malaysian travel operators and international partners. These initiatives have proven instrumental in opening new markets and expanding export opportunities for MATTA members.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Additionally, in early 2025, MATTA became a strategic partner for the Visit Malaysia Year campaign, working closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and Tourism Malaysia to amplify Malaysia’s standing as a premier global tourism destination and ensuring that member businesses are integrated into the national tourism strategy and promotional campaigns.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Throughout this period, MATTA also collaborated with the government on several critical projects that addressed industry challenges, ranging from transportation regulations to digital transformation and accessibility, demonstrating the Association’s commitment to constructive dialogue with policymakers and regulatory bodies.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="600" height="459" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-600x459.png" alt="" class="wp-image-269495" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-600x459.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-300x230.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-768x588.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-696x533.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-1068x818.png 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-549x420.png 549w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334-80x60.png 80w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-334.png 1424w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="600" height="336" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333-600x336.png" alt="" class="wp-image-269494" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333-600x336.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333-300x168.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333-768x430.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333-696x389.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333-1068x598.png 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333-751x420.png 751w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-333.png 1226w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: MATTA)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/07/matta-elects-executive-council/">MATTA elects executive council</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>WTTC: Seven incentives to spur tourism investment</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/wttc-seven-incentives-to-spur-tourism-investment/</link>
					<comments>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/wttc-seven-incentives-to-spur-tourism-investment/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 21 Jun 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EUROPE]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=268923</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>SINGAPORE, 22 June 2026: The World Travel &#38; Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its new global framework, The Seven Principles for Attracting Tourism Investment, last week, setting out the key conditions destinations need to become investment-ready, attract private capital, strengthen competitiveness, and accelerate sustainable tourism growth. Launched by WTTC President &#38; CEO Gloria Guevara, the framework [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/wttc-seven-incentives-to-spur-tourism-investment/">WTTC: Seven incentives to spur tourism investment</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">SINGAPORE, 22 June 2026: The World Travel &amp; Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its new global framework, The Seven Principles for Attracting Tourism Investment, last week, setting out the key conditions destinations need to become investment-ready, attract private capital, strengthen competitiveness, and accelerate sustainable tourism growth.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Launched by WTTC President &amp; CEO Gloria Guevara, the framework draws on the common characteristics of the world’s most successful tourism investment destinations. It provides a practical roadmap for governments seeking to create the conditions for long-term tourism growth.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1624" height="844" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207.png" alt="" class="wp-image-268924" style="aspect-ratio:1.9242005085621632;width:483px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207.png 1624w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207-300x156.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207-600x312.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207-768x399.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207-1536x798.png 1536w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207-696x362.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207-1068x555.png 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-207-808x420.png 808w" sizes="(max-width: 1624px) 100vw, 1624px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo credit: WTTC.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The principles reflect WTTC’s vision of best practice for attracting long-term investment and are designed to help destinations unlock economic growth, job creation, infrastructure development, and sustainable tourism expansion.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>The Seven Principles are:</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Legal Certainty and Regulatory Stability –</strong> a transparent, predictable legal environment that gives investors confidence to commit for the long term.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>One-Stop-Shop for Tourism Investment –</strong> a single, empowered point of contact that simplifies and accelerates the investment journey.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tourism Strategy with Full Stakeholder Alignment –</strong> coordinated planning between government, industry, communities, and investors.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Competitive Fiscal and Investment Incentives –</strong> attractive tax and financing frameworks that improve project viability.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Strong Head of State Commitment –</strong> visible leadership that positions tourism as a national priority.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Comprehensive Destination Master Plans with a Visible Project Pipeline –</strong> long-term destination planning supported by clearly defined investment opportunities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Sustained Demand Growth and Market Potential –</strong> strong tourism fundamentals supported by connectivity, demographics, market demand, and a skilled workforce.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Guevara said: “Around the world, the destinations attracting the greatest levels of tourism investment share a common set of characteristics: policy stability, long-term planning, strong leadership, and effective collaboration between government and the private sector.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Our Seven Principles for Attracting Tourism Investment provide a practical framework for destinations looking to become investment-ready, strengthen competitiveness, and attract global capital.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Travel &amp; Tourism has enormous potential to drive economic growth, create quality jobs, and support communities. By creating the right investment environment, destinations can unlock sustainable long-term development while enhancing their competitiveness in the global tourism market.”</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WTTC’s Seven Principles for Attracting Tourism Investment have been developed to support governments and destination leaders in creating investment-ready environments that encourage sustainable private-sector investment across the Travel &amp; Tourism sector.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: WTTC)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/wttc-seven-incentives-to-spur-tourism-investment/">WTTC: Seven incentives to spur tourism investment</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>GTCC farewells executive director</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/gtcc-farewells-executive-director/</link>
					<comments>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/gtcc-farewells-executive-director/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrew Wood]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 21 Jun 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[THAILAND]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=268931</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>BANGKOK, 22 June 2026: More than 250 members, partners and friends of the German-Thai business community gathered at the prestigious Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok last week for a memorable evening celebrating the outstanding contributions of Dr Roland Wein, Executive Director of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC). He has led the chamber since 2015, strengthening&#160; [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/gtcc-farewells-executive-director/">GTCC farewells executive director</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">BANGKOK, 22 June 2026: More than 250 members, partners and friends of the German-Thai business community gathered at the prestigious Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok last week for a memorable evening celebrating the outstanding contributions of Dr Roland Wein, Executive Director of the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC).</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">He has led the chamber since 2015, strengthening&nbsp; German-Thai business relations and expanding the chamber’s influence across Thailand.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1090" height="833" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-268933" style="aspect-ratio:1.308537163327467;width:485px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25.jpeg 1090w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25-300x229.jpeg 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25-600x459.jpeg 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25-768x587.jpeg 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25-696x532.jpeg 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25-1068x816.jpeg 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25-550x420.jpeg 550w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-25-80x60.jpeg 80w" sizes="(max-width: 1090px) 100vw, 1090px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo L-R: Oliver Schnatz, President of the GTCC and Cluster General Manager of Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit; Benjamin Leipold, MD German Chambers&nbsp; Abroad (AHK); Dr Roland Wein, Executive Director of the GTCC; Ebba Scholl, Deputy Chief of Mission German Embassy Bangkok.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hosted as a special GTCC Afterwork Farewell event on 17 June, the evening brought together business leaders, diplomats, government representatives, chamber members and long-standing friends to express their appreciation for Dr Wein’s dedication, professionalism and commitment over more than a decade of service.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The event was opened by Oliver Schnatz, President of the GTCC and Cluster General Manager of Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, who delivered a heartfelt tribute recognising Dr Wein’s contribution to the chamber and his role in fostering stronger economic and commercial ties between Germany and Thailand.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Special remarks were delivered by Benjamin Leipold, Managing Director of German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHK) and DIHK DEinternational GmbH, and Ebba Scholl, Deputy Chief of Mission at the German Embassy in Bangkok. Both highlighted Dr Wein’s leadership, integrity and lasting impact on the German business community in Thailand and the wider ASEAN region.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The evening also highlighted the close relationship between the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce and Thailand’s tourism and hospitality industries. Many of the chamber’s most active members come from the travel, tourism and hotel sectors, including leading international and Thai brands such as Sofitel, Kempinski, Centara, Dusit and Anantara, as well as airlines, destination management companies, travel agencies and tourism service providers. The event’s host venue, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, provided an elegant setting for the celebration. The strong attendance from the tourism community demonstrated the deep respect held for Dr Wein and the many relationships he has cultivated across Thailand’s business and travel sectors.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The GTCC Board of Directors includes many prominent figures from the German-Thai business community and plays an important role in shaping chamber policy and supporting its members. Throughout his tenure, Dr Wein worked closely with the board and management team to strengthen services, expand business opportunities and reinforce the chamber’s reputation as one of Thailand’s most respected foreign business organisations.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Among GTCC’s flagship events is its annual Oktoberfest, widely recognised as one of the largest German business and cultural celebrations in Thailand. Staged over two days in Bangkok, the event attracts thousands of visitors each year and has become a landmark occasion for the German-Thai community. Supported by many of Thailand’s leading hotels, hospitality companies and corporate partners, Oktoberfest exemplifies the chamber’s unique ability to combine business networking, cultural exchange and community engagement on a remarkable scale.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Representatives from governmental and non-governmental organisations, colleagues from DIHK and AHK offices, members of other chambers of commerce and business associations, and leaders from across Thailand’s corporate sector joined the farewell celebration. Throughout the evening, guests shared memories and reflected on Dr Wein’s achievements during more than ten years at the helm of the chamber.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Guests were also introduced to Matthias Hoffmann, who will assume the position of GTCC Executive Director on 1 August 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the organisation while building on the strong foundation established under Dr Wein’s leadership.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>About the author </strong><br><em>Andrew J Wood is a Bangkok-based media executive, travel writer and former hotel executive specialising in Asian tourism. British-born and originally from Yorkshire, England, he is a graduate of Napier University in Edinburgh and has lived in Thailand since 1991. </em><br><em>His contributions to the tourism industry have been recognised through numerous honours, including the Skål International Order of Merit, the President’s Award and the distinction of Membre d’Honneur. Today, he writes extensively on travel, tourism, hospitality, aviation and business trends across Asia, providing commentary and analysis for industry publications and international audiences.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/gtcc-farewells-executive-director/">GTCC farewells executive director</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>WTTC calls for calm over Ebola outbreak</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/wttc-calls-for-calm-over-ebola-outbreak/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EUROPE]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=268114</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>SINGAPORE, 5 June 2026: The World Travel &#38; Tourism Council (WTTC) is closely monitoring the Ebola outbreak affecting parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, following the World Health Organisation’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on 17 May 2026. WTTC emphasises that this is a localised public health [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/wttc-calls-for-calm-over-ebola-outbreak/">WTTC calls for calm over Ebola outbreak</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">SINGAPORE, 5 June 2026: The World Travel &amp; Tourism Council (WTTC) is closely monitoring the Ebola outbreak affecting parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, following the World Health Organisation’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on 17 May 2026.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WTTC emphasises that this is a localised public health challenge, and at this stage, the overall risk to international travellers remains low. The organisation underscores the need for calm, coordinated and evidence-based responses, warning that misinformation and unnecessary alarm can have far-reaching social and economic consequences for destinations across Africa.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1578" height="952" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41.png" alt="" class="wp-image-268119" style="aspect-ratio:1.657557843254769;width:489px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41.png 1578w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41-300x181.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41-600x362.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41-768x463.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41-1536x927.png 1536w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41-696x420.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image-41-1068x644.png 1068w" sizes="(max-width: 1578px) 100vw, 1578px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo credit: WTTC.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Travellers are encouraged to stay informed through trusted official sources and to follow destination-specific health guidance when travelling to affected areas.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WTTC also highlights that Africa is a diverse continent of 54 countries with very different health systems and tourism realities, cautioning against broad generalisations that could harm millions of livelihoods dependent on Travel &amp; Tourism.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Recent developments, including the temporary suspension of some international flights to Uganda due to precautionary travel restrictions, underscore how responses that are misaligned with actual risk levels can create unnecessary disruption. Authorities and tourism leaders in the region have stressed that affected areas are limited and that conflating countries or imposing broad measures can unfairly impact unaffected destinations and communities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">&nbsp;WTTC, President &amp; CEO Gloria Guevara said: “This situation must be approached with facts, not fear. Ebola remains contained to specific areas, and the risk to international travellers is low. Today, our sector is far better prepared than ever before. With the right measures, collaboration, and responsible behaviour, travel can continue safely while supporting the communities that rely on it.”</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WTTC commends the swift, transparent, and collaborative response from Africa CDC, national governments, the WHO, and international health partners, noting that their leadership provides strong confidence in the management of the situation.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Preparedness based on the COVID-19 experience&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">During the COVID-19 pandemic, WTTC worked alongside governments, international organisations, and industry leaders to develop the Safe Travels protocols, a globally recognised framework designed to ensure safe and seamless travel while protecting both travellers and local communities.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">These protocols demonstrated that coordinated global standards and practical health measures make it possible to maintain travel even during periods of heightened concern. As a result, the global Travel &amp; Tourism sector is now significantly better equipped to respond to public health events than in the past.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WTTC continues to advocate for simple, evidence-based measures aligned with WHO guidance, including good hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, sensible distancing in crowded areas, and compliance with health screening when required. These actions have already proven effective and remain key to reducing risk while preserving traveller confidence.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">WTTC reiterates that travel remains a powerful force for connection, resilience, and economic opportunity, and that responsible travel can continue safely.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: WTTC)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/06/wttc-calls-for-calm-over-ebola-outbreak/">WTTC calls for calm over Ebola outbreak</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>PATA 75 honours long-standing members</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/pata-75-honours-long-standing-members/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[THAILAND]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=267652</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>BANGKOK, 27 May 262026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) honoured its long-standing member organisations celebrating over 50, 60, and 70 years of membership during its recent PATA Executive Board &#38; Board Member and PATA Awards ceremony, part of the PATA Annual Summit 2026 held in Pohang, South Korea. PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/pata-75-honours-long-standing-members/">PATA 75 honours long-standing members</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">BANGKOK, 27 May 262026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) honoured its long-standing member organisations celebrating over 50, 60, and 70 years of membership during its recent PATA Executive Board &amp; Board Member and PATA Awards ceremony, part of the PATA Annual Summit 2026 held in Pohang, South Korea.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said, “As we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Pacific Asia Travel Association, we are honoured to recognise our long-standing members whose continued support, trust, and collective voice have been instrumental in the growth, strength, and relevance of the Association. Their commitment continues to shape a more responsible and sustainable future for tourism across the Asia Pacific region.”</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="386" height="246" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-241.png" alt="" class="wp-image-267657" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-241.png 386w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-241-300x191.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 386px) 100vw, 386px" /></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Organisations: 70 Years of Membership</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Guam Visitors Bureau </strong>(since 1951), represented by Régine Lee, President &amp; CEO.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Hawaii Tourism Authority</strong> (since 1951), represented by Jadie Goo, Acting Chief Brand Officer and Jennifer Chun, Director of Tourism Research.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Kinki Nippon Tourist Co Ltd</strong> (since 1956), represented by Hiroshi Tanimura, Executive Director of the International Affairs Department, JATA, and Secretary General, PATA Japan Chapter, on behalf of Katsuo Aso, Senior Manager, Global Business Department, Kinki Nippon Tourist Co., Ltd.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Philippine Department of Tourism</strong> (since 1951), represented by Dr Erwin Balane, Tourism Attaché.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Other organisations with over 70 years of membership that were unable to attend included Destination NSW, Marianas Visitors Authority, Tahiti Tourisme, and Tourism Fiji.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1600" height="1067" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238.png" alt="" class="wp-image-267654" style="aspect-ratio:1.499548663661553;width:487px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238.png 1600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238-300x200.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238-600x400.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238-768x512.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238-696x464.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238-1068x712.png 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-238-630x420.png 630w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo (L/R): Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA; Dr. Erwin Balane, Tourism Attaché, Philippines Department of Tourism &#8211; Korea Office; Hiroshi Tanimura, Executive Director of International Affairs Department at JATA, Secretary General of PATA Japan Chapter, representing Katsuo Aso, Senior Manager &#8211; Global Business Department, Kinki Nippon Tourist Co., Ltd.; Jennifer Chun, Director of Tourism Research, Hawaii Tourism Authority; Jadie Goo, Acting Chief Brand Officer, Hawaii Tourism Authority; Régine Lee, President &amp; CEO, Guam Visitors Bureau; and Peter Semone, former Chair, PATA.</figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Organisations: 60 Years of Membership</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Global Tour Ltd (since 1962), represented by Henry Oh, Chairman.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Hong Kong Tourism Board</strong> (since 1957), represented by Yoon-Ho Kim, Director &#8211; Korea.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Japan Association of Travel Agents</strong> (since 1963), represented by Hiroshi Tanimura, Executive Director of the International Affairs Department at JATA, Secretary General of PATA Japan Chapter.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Korea Tourism Organisation</strong> (since 1963), represented by Kyungsoo Yang, Executive Vice President.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Macao Government Tourism Office</strong> (since 1958), represented by Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Nepal Tourism Board</strong> (since 1965), represented by Rohini Prasad Khanal, Officiating Director.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Smith’s Motor Boat Service Inc</strong> (since 1965), represented by Jennifer Chun, Director of Tourism Research, Hawaii Tourism Authority, on behalf of Kamika Smith, General Manager, Smith’s Motor Boat Service, Inc.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Taiwan Tourism Administration </strong>(since 1958), represented by Yi-Chen Huang, Chief Secretary.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Thai Airways International Public Company Limited</strong> (since 1957), represented by Natapol Vanichkul, Head of Sales, Northern.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tourism Authority of Thailand (since 1959)</strong>, represented by Watcharaphan Bunnag, Chief of International Relations.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tourism Malaysia</strong> (since 1959), represented by Kamilia Hani Abdul Halim, Director, Tourism Malaysia Seoul</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>World Express Group</strong> (since 1961), represented by Tunku Iskandar, Partner, on behalf of Tan Chee Chye, Chairman.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Yeti Travels Pvt Ltd</strong> (since 1966), represented by Suja Shakya, Senior Manager &#8211; Sales &amp; Marketing.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Other organisations with over 60 years of membership that were unable to attend included DTH Destination (Thailand) Limited, Hecny Transportation Ltd, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Okinawa Tourist Service Inc, Orient Express Private Ltd, Soaltee Hotel Limited, and Tobu Top Tours Co Ltd.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Organisations: 50 Years of Membership</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>All Nippon Airways Co Ltd</strong> (since 1973), represented by Yasuyuki Suzuki, Senior Director, Tourism and Regional Revitalisation,&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Dusit Thani Public Company Limited</strong> (since 1967), represented by Yeonhee Cho, Director of Sales — GSO Korea, and Simon Lloyd, Dean, Hospitality Management and Business Administration, Dusit Thani College.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>PACTO DMC INDONESIA </strong>(since 1972), represented by Raty Ning, President Director.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority</strong> (since 1967), represented by Lesley Timothy, Executive Officer.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Tourism Solomons</strong> (since 1970), represented by Dagnal Dereveke, Acting Chief Executive Officer.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Other organisations with over 50 years of membership that were unable to attend included India Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (ITDC), Messe Berlin / ITB Berlin, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Pakistan, and PanTravel.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1600" height="1067" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242.png" alt="" class="wp-image-267658" style="aspect-ratio:1.499548663661553;width:485px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242.png 1600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242-300x200.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242-600x400.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242-768x512.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242-1536x1024.png 1536w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242-696x464.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242-1068x712.png 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-242-630x420.png 630w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo (L/R): Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA; Dagnal Dereveke, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Solomons; Raty Ning, President Director, PACTO DMC INDONESIA; Lesley Timothy, Executive Officer, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority; Simon Lloyd, Dean, Hospitality Management and Business Administration, Dusit Thani College; Yeonhee Cho, Director of Sales &#8211; GSO Korea, Dusit Thani Public Company Limited; Yasuyuki Suzuki, Senior Director, Tourism and Regional Revitalization, All Nippon Airways Co Ltd; and Peter Semone, former Chair, PATA.</figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: PATA)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/pata-75-honours-long-standing-members/">PATA 75 honours long-standing members</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>ATIA warns travellers to verify agency accreditation</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/atia-warns-travellers-to-verify-agency-accreditation/</link>
					<comments>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/atia-warns-travellers-to-verify-agency-accreditation/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 22:18:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASIA PACIFIC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=267293</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>SYDNEY, 20 May 2026: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) urges Australian travellers to check that their travel agent or tour operator holds current ATIA Accreditation, following issues with Melbourne-based tour operator AVG Travels (formerly Asia Vacation Group, ABN: 74 608 656 800). ATIA cancelled AVG’s accreditation on 22 August 2022 after the company failed [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/atia-warns-travellers-to-verify-agency-accreditation/">ATIA warns travellers to verify agency accreditation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">SYDNEY, 20 May 2026: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) urges Australian travellers to check that their travel agent or tour operator holds current ATIA Accreditation, following issues with Melbourne-based tour operator AVG Travels (formerly Asia Vacation Group, ABN: 74 608 656 800).</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">ATIA cancelled AVG’s accreditation on 22 August 2022 after the company failed to meet the financial and ethical standards required to remain in the scheme. AVG continued to trade and sell tour packages after that date without ATIA Accreditation.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="1108" height="714" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174.png" alt="" class="wp-image-267297" style="aspect-ratio:1.5518020170915547;width:493px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174.png 1108w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174-300x193.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174-600x387.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174-768x495.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174-696x449.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174-1068x688.png 1068w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-174-652x420.png 652w" sizes="(max-width: 1108px) 100vw, 1108px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photo credit: ATIA.</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">ATIA’s accreditation scheme sets the highest standards in the Australian travel industry. Last year, 22% of accreditation applications were rejected for failing to meet those standards. Accredited businesses are subject to ongoing monitoring, and accreditation is cancelled where standards are not met.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A public register of all cancelled and withdrawn accreditations is available at <a href="http://afta.com.au/Accreditation/Cancelled-Withdrawn-ATAS-Participants">afta.com.au/Accreditation/Cancelled-Withdrawn-ATAS-Participants</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Customers of ATIA Accredited businesses also have access to a formal complaints and dispute resolution process, giving them an independent avenue to resolve issues if something goes wrong.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">ATIA is progressing a proposed merger with the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO). A key goal of that merger is to combine the strengths of both accreditation schemes into a stronger framework for businesses and consumers.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Travellers can check whether a business holds current ATIA Accreditation at <a href="https://traveltick.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find ATIA Accredited Travel Agents &amp; Tour Operators</a>. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">ATIA CEO Dean Long commented in the press statement: “The message to consumers is clear — always check that ATIA accredits your travel agent or tour operator. We had a 22% rejection rate of applications last year. We take pride in the people that we removed from the scheme for not meeting our standards.”</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“ATIA Accreditation is the highest benchmark in the travel industry. It comes with an excellent consumer complaint processing process, which means even if something goes wrong, you have an independent umpire to help you settle any disputes.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“One of the reasons why we have been working so hard on the details of the proposed merger with CATO is to bring the best of both accreditation schemes together. This situation underscores exactly why that work matters.”</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>About ATIA (<a href="http://www.atia.travel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.atia.travel</a>)</em><br><em>The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is the peak body representing Australia’s AUD69 billion travel industry. ATIA represents the majority of Australian travel agents, corporate agents, tour operators, wholesalers and ITOs.</em></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: ATIA)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/atia-warns-travellers-to-verify-agency-accreditation/">ATIA warns travellers to verify agency accreditation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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		<title>Back to school thanks to PATA</title>
		<link>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/back-to-school-thanks-to-pata/</link>
					<comments>https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/back-to-school-thanks-to-pata/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 22:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[ASIA PACIFIC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ASSOCIATIONS]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/?p=267301</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>BANGKOK, 20 May 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association officially launches the PATA Micro-credentials Programme, a training and learning initiative that aims to empower tourism professionals in the Asia Pacific with practical, industry-driven skills. Hosted on src.pata.org, the programme comprises short courses developed by two PATA members, EarthCheck and The Sigmund Project, with self-paced learning [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/back-to-school-thanks-to-pata/">Back to school thanks to PATA</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">BANGKOK, 20 May 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association officially launches the PATA Micro-credentials Programme, a training and learning initiative that aims to empower tourism professionals in the Asia Pacific with practical, industry-driven skills.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hosted on src.pata.org, the programme comprises short courses developed by two PATA members, EarthCheck and The Sigmund Project, with self-paced learning and content focused on relevant tourism knowledge. The target group are entry-level to senior professionals, Entrepreneurs and SMEs, and government and tourism organisations. </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="922" height="608" src="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-181.png" alt="" class="wp-image-267316" style="width:486px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-181.png 922w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-181-300x198.png 300w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-181-600x396.png 600w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-181-768x506.png 768w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-181-696x459.png 696w, https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image-181-637x420.png 637w" sizes="(max-width: 922px) 100vw, 922px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid announces the launch of the Micro-credentials programme at PATA Annual Summit 2026 in Gyeongju, Korea (ROK).</em></figcaption></figure>
</div>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Learners will also be awarded with digital certificates upon completion.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said: “At PATA, one of our core aims has always been to support the industry through knowledge sharing and collaboration. Through this initiative, we hope to make practical learning more accessible and flexible, while drawing on the expertise and experiences of PATA’s global network. We believe that by sharing knowledge and learning from one another, we can help tourism stakeholders across the region grow, adapt, and move forward together.”</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Initial courses available under the programme&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://pata.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=40516b5a300441f576f4dca37&amp;id=8609700444&amp;e=59962db039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Integrating ESG into Tourism SMEs – EarthCheck<br></a>The course offers practical ESG strategies for small tourism businesses to build more sustainable operations and improve efficiency. Participants will learn simple, cost-effective actions that can deliver measurable environmental and social impact.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://pata.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=40516b5a300441f576f4dca37&amp;id=c1d53c0d69&amp;e=59962db039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI-Powered Marketing for Tourism Professionals – The Sigmund Project<br></a>The course offers practical applications of AI to create faster and smarter marketing campaigns, produce content, advertisements, and branding materials, and significantly reduce marketing time and production costs.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The courses are now accessible at <a href="https://pata.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=40516b5a300441f576f4dca37&amp;id=9a9aa5de35&amp;e=59962db039">src.pata.o</a><a href="https://pata.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=40516b5a300441f576f4dca37&amp;id=9a9aa5de35&amp;e=59962db039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">r</a><a href="https://pata.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=40516b5a300441f576f4dca37&amp;id=9a9aa5de35&amp;e=59962db039">g/online-courses</a>.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>(Source: PATA)</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/05/back-to-school-thanks-to-pata/">Back to school thanks to PATA</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ttrweekly.com/site">TTR Weekly</a>.</p>
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