ASEAN Tourism Forum 2014 commits for sustainable development
Kuching : The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF 2014) is expected to deliberate and explore the sustainable development of tourism and look at how various tourism initiatives and plans can further support the mantra of Tourism Conserves, Preserves and Protects. The 8-day ATF 2014 will end today (23 January, 2014 ).
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak officially declared open the 33rd ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF 2014), ASEAN – Advancing Tourism Together, at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building, here on January 20.
“The theme, ASEAN – Advancing Tourism Together, chosen for the ATF 2014 , reinforces the commitment of ASEAN Member States to work hand in hand to achieve the vision and goals of the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) 2011 – 2015,” added Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib.
Apart from ASEAN Tourism Ministers and senior government officials, other participants at the ATF 2014 included ASEAN National Tourism Organisations (NTOs), exhibitors, buyers and sellers, as well as Travel Exchange (TRAVEX) delegates from all over the world. A total of 879 sellers from ASEAN countries and 462 international buyers participated in the ATF- 2014
The ATF 2014 provides an excellent platform for Malaysia to showcase its diverse range of tourism attractions, particularly in Sarawak and Sabah, as well as the year-long celebrations of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014 according to a statement of Tourism Malaysia.
ATF 2014 marks the 33rd anniversary of this event since its inauguration in Malaysia in 1981. Among the core objectives of ATF include: projecting ASEAN as an attractive, multi-faceted single destination;creating and increasing awareness of ASEAN as a highly competitive regional tourist destination in the Asia Pacific; attracting more tourists to ASEAN member countries; promoting intra-ASEAN travel; and strengthening cooperation among the various sectors of the ASEAN tourism industry.
Among the major initiatives of ATF was the promotion of Visit ASEAN Year 1992 and Visit ASEAN Campaign 2002.
Jan. 23, 2014
