KUCHING: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 present an excellent opportunity to increase Sarawak’s visibility to delegates from the 28 participating countries.
It is also an opportunity to demonstrate to our partners why Sarawak should be their next choice for tourism and business events.
This year’s PATA Destination Experience Forum & Mart is themed ‘Sustainability in Action,’ providing a golden opportunity for us to learn from each other about best practices in ecotourism, gastronomy tourism, and responsible tourism.
It is a chance to understand how we can all move forward in promoting sustainability within the tourism industry.
Sharzede Datuk Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board, stated during her opening speech of PATA’s welcoming dinner at BCCK, Kuching, that apart from the destination experiences, the PATA event this year would feature speakers and thought leaders, including industry players, government representatives, and tourism professionals.
They will engage in stimulating dialogues and strategies to develop and promote sustainable travel and tourism destinations.
“The pandemic brought the tourism industry to a halt since 2020. However, all indications show that 2023 is seeing a new horizon for tourism.
“We are expecting more tourist arrivals globally, especially to Asia Pacific this year, and so far, we have not been disappointed.
“The Asia Pacific plays a key role in the tourism sector as it is a top source market and a hub of tourism to many of the world’s exciting destinations and leading businesses,” said Deputy Minister for Tourism Sarawak, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, in his speech on Wednesday night.
He added that The PATA Destination Experience Forum & Mart is more important than ever, as it stems from the desire to boost destinations in marketing and managing responsible tourism growth to be recognised as leading tourism destinations.
The format, delivered through a three-day engaging programme, shares insights and knowledge with an unprecedented opportunity to explore the region’s natural landscapes and cultural treasures.
“I am proud to share with you that Sarawak is host to a kaleidoscope of cultures made up of 34 ethnic groups, with a rich and diverse ecosystem for adventurers to explore. Our tourism offerings revolve around Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festivals.
“There is so much that Sarawak has to offer to all our visitors and guests. In particular, this weekend happens to be the most exciting time to be in Sarawak as the renowned Rainforest World Music Festival – a platform for Sarawak to push on sustainability and eco-tourism for the next generation of music lovers – is just around the corner.
“You will also have the opportunity to meet industry leaders, industry partners, and other stakeholders in the tourism industry. Do take this opportunity to expand your network and form new business and strategic relationships for the betterment of the tourism industry,” he added.
