Jakarta: Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa announced that the launch of the 39th ASEANTA Tourism Awards and the Discover ASEAN Microsite by AirAsia MOVE is reshaping the tourism landscape in Southeast Asia. “This is a concrete manifestation of our collective commitment, demonstrating how digital innovation, public-private collaboration, and shared sustainability values can transform our regional tourism landscape,” she stated at the launch of the two initiatives at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta on Friday.
According to Philippines News Agency, with several main categories, Ni Luh emphasized that the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) Tourism Awards transcend mere celebration. The awards aim to raise standards, recognize champions of sustainability, innovation, and quality, and inspire others across the region. Excellence in ASEAN tourism, she asserted, should be viewed as a benchmark that all parties strive to achieve.
At the same event, Ni Luh described the launch of the Discover ASEAN Microsite – developed through collaboration between ASEANTA and AirAsia – as a transformative step. The platform addresses the evolving behavior of global travelers, offering an efficient and accessible gateway to explore ASEAN’s wonders, connecting people with places, shared stories, heritage, and experiences.
Through these joint efforts, Ni Luh believes ASEAN can recover from past disruptions and build an inclusive and well-connected regional tourism ecosystem. Tourism, she noted, drives economic growth and connects communities, cultures, and histories. “Tourism fosters mutual understanding, strengthens community bonds, and opens doors to shared prosperity. Today’s initiative reaffirms our shared aspiration to make ASEAN a region not only visited but also cherished and remembered,” she added.
In commemoration of ASEAN Day, Ni Luh reiterated the commitment of all parties to collaborate for a vibrant tourism future. “Let’s continue to innovate, collaborate, and inspire. Together, we can position ASEAN not only as a preferred destination but also as a model of regional unity and progress,” she concluded.
