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‘PATA Annual Summit 2025’ focuses on ‘Meaningful Tourism’

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L/R: Sinan Seha Türkseven, Acting General Manager, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency and Peter Semone, Chair, PATA.

 

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) successfully held the PATA Annual Summit 2025 (PAS 2025) from 21-23 April  at the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel in İstanbul, Türkiye. The event was hosted by the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) and supported by official airline partner Turkish Airlines.

Held under the theme “Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future”, PAS 2025 brought together over 260 delegates from 35 destinations. PAS 2025 was not only a space for dialogue and discovery – it also marked a defining moment for the Association’s internal growth and governance. The Summit began with a series of productive internal meetings over the first day and a half, including:

  1. Ratification of a new Vision and Mission for the Association
  2. Formal approval of the PATA Executive Board and Board members
  3. Strategic discussions that advanced the PATA 2030 Strategy, setting the course for a more agile, inclusive, and impact-driven Association.

These milestones reflect PATA’s commitment to evolving its role as the leading voice for responsible tourism in Asia Pacific and beyond, and to strengthening its impact through renewed focus and leadership.

Leadership Messages: A Call for Purpose-Driven Tourism

Opening the main conference on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 22, PATA Chair Peter Semone delivered a compelling call to action, urging the global tourism industry to adopt a more purposeful and impact-focused approach to growth.

“Tourism cannot survive without peace, nature, and community,” said Semone. “In an era of climate instability and rising polarization, the tourism sector must go beyond growth metrics and instead become a vehicle for empathy, humility, and peace. That is the path to regeneration and resilience.”

Later, in the Thought Leaders Session: Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future, PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid reflected on tourism’s deeper value: “Tourism is an emotional economy. What we truly take away from travel are the moments, memories, and human connections. PAS 2025 is our opportunity to commit to tourism that uplifts, heals, and endures.”

Global Voices, Shared Commitments

With participants from across the Asia Pacific and beyond – including Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea (ROK), Thailand, Saudi Arabia, the USA, and more – the Summit featured over 40 speakers from leading organisations such as UN Tourism, BBC, Mastercard, Skyscanner, Amadeus, Airbnb, GSTC, and Tripadvisor.

Highlights from the programme included:

PATA Policy Forum: Building a Sustainable Future: Government-led dialogue on policy innovation

  1. Sustainability Panel – Temperature Rising: Confronting the climate emergency
  2. Ideation Lab – Trend Accelerator: Unpacking the latest global travel trends
  3. In Conversation – Rethinking Global Aviation: A look at İstanbul’s growing role as a global air hub
  4. Breakout Sessions: Focused on outbound markets, digital nomads, AI integration, and workforce development

A newly introduced feature, the “Ask the PATA Experts” initiative, allowed delegates to schedule one-on-one consultations with specialists in seven key areas, ranging from climate adaptation to workforce development. This initiative is part of the PATA Strategy 2030, aimed at enhancing member engagement and delivering greater value through targeted, expert-driven interactions.

 

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Traveller Made taking luxury travel event across three continents – from Phuket to Panama to Sardinia

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With the first of its three Essence of Luxury events for the year having taken place in Thailand’s Phuket in March, Traveller Made is gearing up for the second event coming up in May in Panama and third event in Sardinia in September.

In 2024 the company reimagined its annual Essence of Luxury flagship event that’s been held in Marbella since 2019 into three regional events across three continents – one in Asia, one in the Americas and one in Europe.

Following on from the Essence of Phuket event, the Essence of Panama is set for 12-16 May 2025 and Essence of Sardinia for 22-26 September 2025.

The decision to move the Essence of Luxury show beyond Europe represents the luxury travel network’s global expansion.

“We are now the most international luxury travel network” said Traveller Made founder and president Quentin Desurmont. “We’re not the biggest. We’re not into size, we’re into top quality.”

Committed to a ‘small and beautiful’ approach, the network now has some 570 member agencies in its Serandipians community and is quickly approaching its target of 600 agencies. The focus is on North America to get the remaining 30 or so. Its Takumians community meanwhile, which was launched in 2024 with Serandipians nearly at member capacity, already has over 80 agencies.

As ‘luxury travel designers’, these member agencies are in 77 countries. A balanced spread sees 39 percent of them in Europe, 35 percent in Asia and 25 percent in the Americas.

In a world where “everybody says they do luxury”, Serandiapians and Takumians is the seal of quality, explained Desurmont. “We organize unexpected, life changing moments and create serendipitous moments for clients. It’s about tailormade travel creation that’s on demand, personalized and luxury, very high end.”

Thus the naming of Serandipians, while Takumians was inspired by Master Takumi which in Japan is the highest level of artisanship.

As a luxury travel network, Serandipians and Takumians are connected with partner luxury travel and hospitality suppliers around the world such as hotels and resorts, private villas, destination management companies, private yacht and jet operators and brokers, and tourism boards.

The Essence of Phuket event was held at SAii Laguna Phuket over 3-7 March 2025, the idyllic resort nestled along Bang Tao Beach within the iconic Laguna Phuket complex. SAii Laguna Phuket and Santiburi Koh Samui – two flagship properties of S Hotels & Resorts – are among the Serandipians partner hotels in Thailand.

The event was an opportunity for member agencies from around the world to engage with regional partner suppliers in networking, knowledge sharing and celebrating excellence in the luxury travel sector.

The event programme included the Master Designers and Crafters conference at Banyan Tree Phuket focusing on emerging trends and innovations in luxury travel, pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings, the Idolons award ceremony recognising outstanding members of the Serandipians and Takumians communities for their contributions to the luxury travel industry, and some fantastic social events for relaxed, high-level networking.

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Philippine Airlines to reopen PAL Aviation School

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) plans to reopen the PAL Aviation School as a prominent training center for new pilots.

The institution will be managed under a strategic partnership with the globally recognized flight training organization Airways Aviation Group.

By doing so, PAL aims to deliver best-in-class pilot training as part of its long-term commitment to operational excellence, safety and workforce development. 

Furthermore, this partnership underscores Philippine Airlines’ drive to ensure that its cadets receive consistent, world-class instruction that meets the highest global aviation standards. 

Backed by a strong track record

Following an extensive evaluation process, Airways Aviation’s Australia-based training academy was selected for its strong track record in delivering high-quality, internationally aligned pilot training programs. 

PAL president and chief operating officer Stanley K Ng said: “Airways Aviation met our stringent requirements and demonstrated their robust emphasis on safety culture and competency-based training methodologies. We value the importance of in-house training in shaping pilots with a global outlook, armed with the exceptional skills and innovative spirit required to meet the challenges of the future.” 

PAL OIC and executive vice-president Carlos Luis Fernandez added: “Our revitalized Aviation School will help develop this vital workforce: individuals who are not only outstanding in their craft but also globally minded citizens committed to building a sustainable future for aviation. This meaningful collaboration with Airways Aviation draws from the deep well of expertise and shared commitment to excellence that both our organizations are known for.” 

This partnership also represents a significant step forward in the strengthening of education and training bonds between the Philippines and Australia, reinforcing both countries’ roles in shaping a safer, more skilled and more resilient global aviation workforce. 

For his part, Airways Aviation Group founder and chair Romy Hawatt declared: “We are honoured to be selected as the official training provider for the next generation of Philippine Airlines pilots. This partnership is not only a recognition of our global training capabilities, but a testament to the shared values and vision that bind our two organizations. Together, we are investing in the future of aviation.” 

Hawatt likewise pointed out that this is more than just another training programme; rather, it is a strategic alliance built on trust, ambition and a shared commitment to aviation excellence and sustainability. 

The first group of cadets will commence Foundation training and undergo assessment and selection processes in the Philippines followed by advanced aviation theory and practical training at Airways Aviation’s Australian campuses, where they will receive comprehensive instruction supported by expert faculty, industry-leading technology, and hands-on practical experience. 

Philippine Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing home-grown talent by combining local investment with global best practice, ensuring its pilots are equipped to operate at the highest level of safety and professionalism. 

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Tourism Malaysia launches guide to Sandakan

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Tourism Malaysia and the Sandakan Tourism Association (STAN) officially launched the new A Guide to Sandakan brochure as part of their vigorous efforts to promote interstate travel to Sabah in light of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

A Guide to Sandakan offers a variety of interesting options: an enticing blend of stunning natural landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, adventure activities, rich cultural experiences, and gastronomy in Sandakan.

The launch was graced by deputy minister of tourism, arts, and culture Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan together with tourism secretary-general Shaharuddin Abu Sohot, Tourism Malaysia director in Sabah Haryanty Abu Bakar, and STAN president Chee Kim Teo, President Sandakan Tourism Association.

Khan said in his remarks that the guide will help encourage domestic and international visitors to plan their holiday or even weekend getaway to Sandakan. 

He said: “From cosying up with the orangutan in the wild, to coming up close with the Bornean Sun Bears, the mascot of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. With the blend of wildlife and adventure, unique local eats and fresh seafood, Sandakan is the ideal getaway to explore the state of Sabah.”

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TAT x LCFC Premier League event highlights Thailand’s soft power

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in partnership with Leicester City Football Club (LCFC), staged a high-impact promotional event during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Liverpool on Sunday, 20th April, at King Power Stadium, UK.

The event marked a key step in TAT’s mission to elevate Thai Soft Power globally. 

The initiative also built on TAT’s long-standing partnership with LCFC, which began during COVID-19. 

With over 30,000 spectators at the match and a global broadcast audience in the billions, the collaboration delivered a powerful platform to position Thailand as a top destination for sport and entertainment tourism.

It leveraged football’s massive reach to boost Thailand’s visibility across European markets. It was part of TAT’s broader Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 campaign, aimed at attracting high-quality tourists through the unifying power of sport.

Held under the theme 5 Must-Do Experiences in Thailand, the event offered fans a vivid glimpse into Thai culture and travel appeal. 

TAT deputy governor for marketing communications Nithee Seeprae said: “TAT continues to see sport as a powerful gateway for travel inspiration. Through this collaboration with Leicester City, we’ve brought Thailand’s identity onto one of the world’s most watched stages. It’s about making meaningful impressions that convert into real travel decisions.”

A most elegant sport

A standout was the Muay Thai showcase which featured renowned fighters Shadow Singmawin and Alex Singmawin. 

Their modern take on the traditional Wai Khru ritual highlighted the elegance and spirit of Thailand’s national martial art, captivating audiences in the stadium and beyond.

Fans also had the chance to join a Wai Khru demonstration to win autographed LCFC jerseys and limited-edition “Chang” boxing shorts, all of which added a memorably interactive element to the experience.

Delectably Thai

The “Must Taste” highlight featured khao tan, a traditional Thai crispy rice snack made with sugarcane and watermelon juice. 

This hands-on tasting introduced spectators to Thailand’s distinctive flavours and culinary heritage.

To amplify the campaign, TAT rolled out Amazing Thailand advertisements across LCFC’s platforms, including LED screens inside King Power Stadium and digital content via LCFC.com, Facebook, and X. 

With a combined online following of over 10 million, this media presence significantly boosted campaign visibility.

Ahead of the match, TAT also ran a Songkran-themed online contest in the UK, offering ten exclusive tickets to the game. 

The activity deepened cultural engagement while building anticipation.

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Philippine Airlines introduces its PAL e-Wallet

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) introduces its first-ever e-Wallet, a handy digital payment solution that enables passengers to store multiple PAL e-Cards in a single account. 

PAL vice-president for sales and distribution Justin Warby expressed pride in the new addition to the airline’s growing range of offerings, all of which are meant to upgrade each passenger’s digital experience.

Warby said: “This user-friendly feature benefits travelers who prefer paperless transactions and real-time updates in just one click.” 

A handy travel companion

PAL e-Cards such as the PAL e-Gift Card, Dear PAL Miles e-Card, Travel Credits, and Compensation eCards or vouchers may all be consolidated in the PAL e-Wallet account. 

At the same time, this new digital wallet may also be used as an alternative payment method for purchasing PAL tickets and ancillaries, with the exception of upgrades and third-party travel insurance.

Other key features of the PAL e-Wallet include the flexibility to auto-currency conversion upon adding eCards to the e-Wallet, the built-in expiration logic for e-Card utilization that ensures passengers get the full value of e-Cards by prioritizing expiring ones, and the name check feature for adding Travel Credits to the e-Wallet. 

All of these simplify the redemption process.

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InterContinental Halong Bay Resort set to become area’s first luxury destination resort

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InterContinental Halong Bay Resort is slated to become the new jewel of Ha Long Bay when it opens this summer.

The resort will offer curated experiences tailored for leisure seekers, culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike from luxury cruises through Ha Long Bay and exploration into hidden caves, to visits to fishing villages for an authentic glimpse into life on the water.

The resort’s architecture, led by WATG, reflects the heritage and vibrancy of the region, weaving together narratives from ancient folklore and celebrating the dramatic interplay of land, sea, islands and inlets that define Ha Long Bay’s natural beauty. 

With interiors by P49Deesign, the resort’s lobby takes inspiration from Vietnam’s traditional bamboo basket boats, while guest rooms highlight the striking colours of land and sea with turquoise blue upholstery, brass accents, and playful textures reminiscent of fish scales, rippling waters, or iridescent pearls throughout.

Located at the gateway to Ha Long City, in the exclusive Ha Long Marina Urban Area, just outside the vibrant streets of Bai Chay, the InterContinental Halong Bay Resort is conveniently located just two hours from Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport. 

Offering a luxurious retreat, the resort will provide the perfect base for travellers to explore the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, and a great accommodation for pre- and post-cruise stays.

Where comfort comes first

The resort will feature 174 guest rooms and suites, 60 residences and 41 private villas.

In light of the fact that today’s travellers lead diverse lives, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts acknowledges the need for seamless transitions throughout their day. 

To address this and enrich the travel experience, the brand will help guests shape-shift through their day at its hotels and resorts. 

Initiatives include scientifically backed food and beverage programmes designed to reduce travel fatigue while multiple dining venues cater to differing guest needs from morning to night. 

All guests will also receive access to Timeshifter, a jet lag app which enables international guests to use the latest circadian science to adjust quickly to new time zones.

Well-appointed meeting spaces and dining venues

Featuring five dedicated event spaces and breakout areas equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the resort will welcome corporate meetings and events, weddings and celebratory milestone occasions. 

The elegant Grand Ballroom is the largest space, accommodating up to 1,050 guests in a theatre setup, 810 for receptions or 680 for banquets. 

Additionally, there are four versatile meeting rooms as well as outdoor venue options, including a manicured garden with a capacity of 330 persons and a terrace accommodating up to 390 persons for receptions.

The resort will also boast of six eclectic dining venues that will take guests on a culinary journey of regional and international flavours. 

Signature restaurants will include Roku & Sky Bar, located on the 10th floor of the resort’s rooftop. 

Inspired by the Land of the Rising Sun, Roku & Sky Bar will offer a menu of specialty Japanese cuisine infused with local flair. 

From handcrafted cocktails to a traditional Sake Library, this rooftop destination, with a dramatic hanging bamboo art installation evoking the legend of Ha Long, will provide a unique dining experience, complemented by panoramic views of the bay. 

Yulong Mansion is a two-story venue that will offer a modern Cantonese dining experience. It will feature multiple private dining rooms, an open kitchen allowing guests to watch chefs at work, as well as notable tableside preparations such as Peking duck carving, elevating the dining experience with culinary craftsmanship.

Relaxation and recreation for everyone

Spa and recreational programming will also be introduced at the resort. 

The spa will collaborate with Margaret Dabbs London, a luxury British beauty brand, and Sodashi, an Australian clean beauty brand, who will provide wellness treatments ranging from healing facial rituals to nurturing, sensory body therapies for ultimate wellbeing. 

From beach activities such as volleyball to outdoor archery, three outdoor pools, the family-friendly Planet Trekkers kids’ club and The Game Room, which will feature a cinema, will ensure all generations are entertained.

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Mohit Bhowar takes executive sous-chef post at JW Marriott Mumbai Sabar

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JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar officially welcomed Mohit Bhowar as its new executive sous-chef.

A dynamic kitchen management professional with over 17 years of rich experience, Bhowar brings a deep-rooted passion for the culinary arts into the role, along with a commitment to excellence that aligns seamlessly with the brand’s pursuit of elevated guest experiences. 

In his new role, he will be responsible for leading the culinary brigade at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, infusing them with his signature creativity, strategic insight, and guest-first philosophy. 

Bhowar will work closely with the culinary team to enhance the hotel’s diverse Food & Beverage experiences, ensuring the highest standards across all dining venues and events. 

His illustrious career includes stints with a number of prestigious hospitality brands including Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Renaissance Hotels, Sofitel, Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton, and Marriott Executive Apartments.

Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from IHM Aurangabad, Bhowar’s approach blends strong academic grounding with hands-on expertise in kitchen management, quality assurance, and cost optimization. 

Raising the bar in his profession

Over the years, Bhowar has been celebrated for driving impactful initiatives, from elevating hygiene standards to training the next generation of culinary professionals. 

His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including ‘Most Improved Food Quality’ award at Courtyard by Marriott Bilaspur in 2017 and ‘Best Manager of the Year’ at Fairfield by Marriott Goa Anjuna in 2019. 

He also represented Indian cuisine internationally, at the Renaissance Kota Bharu Hotel in Malaysia, and has been featured on platforms such as TV9 and Radio Mirchi.

Prior to joining JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, Bhowar held the position of head chef at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl, Doha. 

He also played a pivotal role in several successful pre-opening projects as Executive Chef, including Marriott Executive Apartments in Navi Mumbai and Fairfield by Marriott in Goa (Anjuna and Calangute), as well as Hilton Garden Inn Lucknow. 

His tenure was marked by a strategic approach to quality control, operational efficiency, and exceptional service delivery.

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Bakul Pednekar is Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru’s new director of people and culture

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Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru announced the appointment of  Bakul Pednekar as its director of people and culture.

In this position, Pednekar will lead the People & Culture function at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, shaping employee experiences that inspire excellence and reflect the brand’s legendary service philosophy. 

A consummate industry professional well schooled in the Four Seasons’ culture, he brings more than 17 years of rich, cross-continental experience shaped by the brand’s deep-rooted values of empathy, excellence, and service from the heart.

Hotel general manager Biswajit Chakraborty said of the new director: “He is a shining example of our belief in nurturing talent from within. His journey reflects the essence of Four Seasons, growing leaders who live our values daily. With his global perspective and deep understanding of our culture, I am confident he will enrich our team and take our People & Culture practices to even greater heights.”

Pednekar’s return to India marks a full-circle moment: combining global expertise with local intuition to nurture the next generation of hospitality leaders. 

Nearly two decades of expertise

Pednekar’s Four Seasons journey began in 2007 in stewarding operations at the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai. 

This humble beginning blossomed into a remarkable career through his innate leadership, emotional intelligence, and people-first approach. 

He has since held key Human Resource roles across some of the brand’s most iconic properties, including Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Kuda Huraa, and most recently, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, where he served as director of people and culture for close to three years.

Known for fostering inclusive and purpose-driven workplaces, Pednekar has led diverse teams, spearheaded impactful learning programmes, and championed employee well-being, earning admiration from colleagues and accolades from the industry. 

His leadership is grounded in a profound respect for people and a passion for creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, seen, and empowered.

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Three New Executive Board Members join PATA

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Picture: L/R: Dr Chuwit Mitrchob, Deputy Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA); Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board; and Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA).

 

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) ratified the election of new Executive Board members: Dr Chuwit Mitrchob, Deputy Director-General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, CEO, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB). Additionally, Raki Phillips, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), has been appointed as an Executive Board member.

“Dr. Chuwit, Sharzede and Raki have been incredible supporters of PATA over the years, offering their time, expertise, and passion in ways that have truly made a difference,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid following the ratification. “Their contributions, both as former Board members and active supporters of our events and initiatives, have helped advance our mission to grow tourism in a more responsible and inclusive way. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to both of them, and I look forward to building on our collaboration in the years ahead.”

Elected by PATA Board members to serve a two-year term of service, Dr Mitrchob and Salleh Askor will work with other members of the Executive Board towards the Association’s objectives in promoting responsible tourism development in the Asia Pacific region. Dr Mitrchob and Salleh Askor are replacing outgoing Executive Board members Gerald Perez, Vice President, Guam Visitors Bureau, and Noredah Othman, CEO, Sabah Convention Bureau (representing Sabah Tourism Board).

Dr. Chuwit Mitrchob is the Deputy Director-General of the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) under the Kingdom of Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports. He has played a key role in fostering collaboration between DASTA and international tourism bodies, including pioneering efforts to bring the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) into Thailand’s sustainable tourism framework.

He was also instrumental in supporting the establishment of the Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN). His work spans low-carbon tourism, creative tourism, gastronomy tourism, and community-based tourism. His expertise extends to guiding cities toward inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), notably Sukhothai (Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art) and Petchaburi (Creative City of Gastronomy).

Sharzede Datu Hj. Salleh Askor holds the position of Chief Executive Officer at STB and concurrently serves as a member of its Board of Directors. Prior to joining STB, she held leadership roles across various industries, including a Malaysian conglomerate, an advertising consultancy, and an international exhibition and convention centre. With over 30 years of experience in integrated marketing communications, branding, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and executive management, Sharzede is a strong advocate for inclusive tourism. She believes that every stakeholder plays a crucial role in enhancing Sarawak’s global visibility. Her vision focuses on making responsible and niche tourism the cornerstone of Sarawak’s tourism industry—strengthening local economies while embedding sustainable environmental practices into the region’s tourism ecosystem.

Raki Phillips leads the strategic development of Ras Al Khaimah as a world-class tourism destination and was named 2023 Businessperson of the Year by Arabian Business magazine. In his role, he is not only focused on strengthening the competitive performance of the tourism sector but also committed to driving the Emirate’s economic and social prosperity, while enhancing quality of life for all residents.

Dr Mitrchob, Salleh Askor, and Phillips will join the other Executive Board members including Peter Semone, Chair, PATA; Suman Pandey, President, Explore Himalaya Travel & Adventure; Luzi Matzig, Chairman, Asian Trails Ltd.; Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA; Ben Montgomery, Corporate Ambassador, Centara Hotels & Resorts; Henry Oh, Chairman, Global Tour Ltd.; Mayur Patel, Head of Asia, OAG; SanJeet, Director, DDP Publications Private Limited; and Alexander Rayner, CEO, SmartData.travel Limited trading (Tourism Cyber Centre).

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