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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 2, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / After an 18-year hiatus, Global Travel Meet 2025 officially opened in Kuala Lumpur, positioning Malaysia back at the heart of global tourism networking. The long-awaited event, organized by Tourism Malaysia, drew over 600 qualified buyers, 400 travel trade sellers, and 100 international media delegates from more than 45 countries — making it one of the most significant tourism B2B gatherings in Southeast Asia this year.

Opening the event, Khairul Firdaus bin Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, underscored the strategic importance of the Global Travel Meet as a platform for industry reconnection, market recalibration, and brand revitalization.

“The last time we hosted this event was in 2007. Today, we return not just to participate in the conversation — but to lead it,” said Akbar Khan. “This is a space to build sustainable partnerships and unlock new opportunities.”

Diverse Global Participation

The event featured a diverse exhibitor lineup that included national tourism boards, airlines, hotel groups, DMCs, tech providers, and regional attractions. Key exhibitors included Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Genting Group, Berjaya Hotels & Resorts, Sunway Group, and state-level tourism bodies from Sabah, Sarawak, Penang, Langkawi, and Johor.

International tourism boards from Indonesia, Thailand, India, Korea, and the Philippines also participated, reflecting strong regional interest in two-way partnerships with Malaysia.

Leading OTA and booking platforms such as Traveloka, Trip.com, and Klook also showcased their latest solutions in AI-driven personalization, experience packaging, and seamless payments — signaling a convergence between traditional and tech-led tourism stakeholders.

Key Sponsors and Strategic Partners

The event was made possible through the support of Platinum Sponsors including Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and Petronas, while Visa, Maybank, and Amadeus served as key industry partners. Tourism Malaysia’s overseas offices in India, China, and the UK played a pivotal role in curating top buyers from priority markets.

Exhibitors benefited from pre-scheduled business appointments, hosted networking lunches, and destination site visits — reinforcing the B2B value proposition of the event.

Focus on Data-Driven and Sustainable Growth

Akbar Khan emphasized that the Meet serves as more than a sales platform — it’s also a listening post for industry feedback, which will be instrumental in shaping the next phase of Malaysia’s tourism growth. “We’re adjusting our products based on what our trade partners are telling us. Global Travel Meet is the starting point,” he noted.

The strong response comes at a time when Malaysia is experiencing a post-pandemic boom, with 38 million visitors in 2024, and 24.5 million already recorded by July 2025. This momentum feeds directly into the planning and positioning of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which aims to attract 47 million visitors under a unified message of sustainability, innovation, and authenticity.

For buyers, especially those from long-haul markets like Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, the event offered a chance to reconnect with Malaysian products that have evolved significantly — from niche offerings in golf and wellness tourism, to high-end destination weddings, and eco-cultural circuits in Borneo.

“There’s real energy on the floor,” said a buyer from France. “Malaysia is back with a more diversified, higher-value product. It’s the right time to reintroduce it to our market.”

As the show continues over the next two days, more than 8,000 scheduled appointments and dozens of networking activations are expected to drive meaningful commercial outcomes — making Global Travel Meet 2025 not just a comeback, but a catalyst.

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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Highrise Pvt Ltd, a leading event management company from the Maldives is proud to announce its official partnership with Travelindex Media Group, a prominent global digital media company focused on travel, tourism, and hospitality. This partnership will promote two of the Maldives’ most anticipated events Food & Beverage Show and Vacations Expo with a focus on attracting new products and businesses to the vibrant Maldivian market. The partnership was made in the Global Travel Meet Malaysia 2025 event.

The Food & Beverage Show 2026 is set to take place in the Maldives just ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, positioning it as one of the best local culinary events in the region. The event will bring together food and beverage industry leaders, chefs, restaurants and suppliers to showcase the latest trends, innovations and products in the culinary world.

In addition, the Vacations Expo 2026 will be held as a premier inbound and outbound travel exhibition, aiming to promote both the Maldives as a prime vacation destination and foster international tourism business. This exhibition will be an ideal platform for travel agencies, resorts, and tour operators to connect with visitors and potential clients.

Highrise will act as the liaison for interested businesses in Thailand, helping them access new opportunities in the Maldives market. Travelindex Media Group, leveraging its global reach and digital expertise, will assist in driving awareness and generating excitement around these events exhibitions.

Key Aspects:
* Promotion: Travelindex will activate targeted marketing campaigns in to attract new products, services, and participants to the Maldives Food & Beverage Show and Vacations Expo.
* Industry Exposure: Connecting businesses with new markets in the Maldives, creating a gateway for growth in both the food and beverage sector and the tourism industry.
* Networking Opportunities: Facilitating collaboration between exhibitors and local Maldivian businesses, fostering partnerships and driving crossborder investment.

“We are excited to partner with Travelindex Media Group to bring the Food & Beverage Show and Vacations Expo to life,” said Ms. Mariyam Maaisha, Director Sales & Marketing of Highrise Pvt Ltd. “This collaboration will play a vital role in expanding international visibility and presence in the Maldives’ booming culinary and tourism markets.”

Mr. Bernard A. Metzger, Founder of Travelindex Media Group, stated “The Maldives offers a unique and growing market for both the food & beverage and tourism industries. It is aligned with our plans to promote the Maldives as a gastronomy destination with a TOP25 Restaurants Maldives Guide, fully integrated into our strategy to elevate the Maldives into a premier gastronomy destination. Our partnership with Highrise Pvt Ltd will ensure that global and regional businesses have the opportunity to participate and benefit from these impactful exhibitions and events.”

Thai businesses interested in participating in the above events can reach out directly to the Highrise team at sales@highriseint.com for more information.

Event Details:
* Food & Beverage Show 2026: A culinary Maldives exhibition ahead of Ramadan.
* Date: 28-31 January 2026
* Location: Central Park, Hulhumale, Maldives

* Vacations Expo 2026: An inbound and outbound travel exhibition in the Maldives.
* Date: 9-11 April 2026
* Location: Central Park, Hulhumale, Maldives

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Singapore, Singapore, October 3, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / This year, travelers are increasingly planning detours along their journeys, discovering less crowded, unique experiences that provide a welcoming sense of place. With 18 distinct brands that cater to every type of traveler, and more than 4,300 hotels in 100+ countries, BWH Hotels, the global hospitality enterprise comprised of WorldHotels, Best Western^® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay^® Hotels, is inviting travelers to explore its world-class resorts and hotels with six “Detour Destinations.” This curated portfolio of unique properties, including immersive locations across Asia Pacific, aligns with the growing desire of discerning travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path escapes.

While travelers continue to venture to popular destinations worldwide, they are also looking to add stops along the way to explore lesser-known locations that offer a fresh perspective and new experiences. Recent data shows that 63% of travelers will likely explore a detour destination on their next getaway. Whether it’s an inspiring escape from Vietnam’s beautiful beaches or an intriguing urban retreat in Singapore’s culture-rich districts, BWH Hotels offers more than a place to sleep; it delivers authentic locations that provide opportunities to recharge and explore.

Goodwood Park Hotel, WorldHotels Elite

Singapore is one of the world’s most famous metropolises, with an array of iconic landmarks and world-class attractions. Guests who step off the tourist trail can uncover a wealth of cultural wonders, such as colorful shophouses, hawker markets street art and more. Curious explorers can take the MRT to vibrant districts, including Chinese, Indian and Arabian quarters, to soak up the buzzing street life.

Design Detour: This elegant heritage hotel dates from 1900 and its interior design has been faithfully restored to capture the colonial elegance of Singapore’s past.

Ambassador Hotel Hsinchu, WorldHotels Elite

Known as “Taiwan’s Silicon Valley,” Hsinchu is a dynamic city that makes a great alternative to the busy streets of Taipei. Explore Hsinchu Chenghuang Temple, which dates from 1747, and stay until sunset for the night market, where foodies can discover local delicacies like Hsinchu meatballs.

Delectable Detour: Perched on the 12^th floor, A Shabu is the city’s top shabu-shabu hotpot restaurant which specializes in imported Japanese beef.

Best Western Wellington

While Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, it retains a laid-back vibe and feels a million miles away from the busy streets of Auckland. This makes it a great place for leisurely exploration, with many attractions in the compact city center. Hannah’s Laneway is the place to grab light bites and meet friendly locals, Lambton Quay is superb for shopping and the Wellington Cable Car promises panoramic views.

Self-Drive Detour: Travelers exploring New Zealand by car will appreciate the hotel’s EV car charging station and spacious apartments with kitchenettes for short or extended escapes.

SureStay by Best Western Vientiane

Southeast Asia’s dynamic capital cities attract millions of visitors each year, but for urban explorers who want to experience a more traditional way of life, the Lao capital of Vientiane offers a sense of laid-back charm. Nestled on the Mekong River, this captivating city has a wealth of cultural attractions, such as the golden Pha That Luang temple and exquisite Wat Sisaket, with its 10,000 Buddhist statues. 

Dusk Detour: As the sun sets, travelers can head up to the Tipsy Elephant Rooftop Bar for cool drinks and stunning views of the cityscape and Mekong riverside.

Best Western Premier Marvella Nha Trang

The seaside city of Nha Trang may seem like a modern resort destination with high-rise hotels and state-of-the-art attractions, but its roots run much deeper – all the way back to the ancient Champa Kingdom. Guests who want to take a break from the beach can explore the region’s rich history at Po Nagar, a magnificent mountaintop temple which dates back almost 1,300 years.

Driving Detour: Vietnam is a great golfing destination, and guests can practice their driving, chipping and putting skills with the hotel’s state-of-the-art 3D golf simulator.

Best Western Plus Hotel Subic

Just a 2.5 hour drive from Manila, Subic Bay lets city dwellers enjoy some rest and relaxation by the sea with its soft sandy beaches. It is also an exceptional diving destination, with several shipwrecks that teem with marine life. Nature lovers who want a break from the beach can head 20 minutes inland to Pamulaklakin Nature Park, a lush forest with wildlife trails and indigenous villages.

Indigenous Detour: The elevated pool deck and bar at the newly-renovated Best Western Plus Hotel Subic is the perfect place to sip cocktails and soak up the sunset.

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Rome, Italy, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / At its 25th Global Summit in Rome today, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) launched its latest report, revealing that Europe remains the beating heart of international tourism, with five of the world’s top 10 most powerful Travel & Tourism markets by GDP.

The return of the WTTC Global Summit to Europe, for the first time since the pandemic reflects the region’s enduring global leadership.

Italy’s position as a G7 nation and as host of this year’s Global Summit further underlines its leadership role, building on hosting last year’s first-ever G7 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting.

According to the latest data, Italy’s Travel & Tourism sector reached $248.3BN last year, underpinned by strong international visitor spend and a booming meetings and events industry.

Germany, the world’s third most powerful Travel & Tourism market, contributed $525BN to its GDP in 2024.

Despite losing £2.2BN international visitors spending last year, the UK added $367BN to its economy, maintaining its position as one of the strongest and most dynamic markets worldwide.

France, the world’s most visited destination, generated over $289BN from Travel & Tourism in 2024, whilst Spain, the second most visited country in the world, added $270BN.

This broad-based growth demonstrates Europe’s ability to blend heritage with innovation, maintain global competitiveness, and lead the way in sustainable tourism development.

WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara said: “These results tell a story of strength and opportunity. The U.S. remains the world’s largest Travel & Tourism market, China is surging back, Europe is powering ahead, and destinations across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa are delivering record growth. This year, we are forecasting that our sector will contribute an historic $2.1TN in 2025, surpassing the previous high of $1.9TN in 2019, by $164BN.

“As Italy hosts this year’s Global Summit, its role as a G7 leader showcases the importance of tourism in driving economies, creating jobs, and shaping our shared future.”

Around the World

The report also reveals that the U.S. remains the world’s most powerful Travel & Tourism market, contributing $2.6TN to GDP in 2024, with its domestic market remaining the strongest in the world, sustaining millions of jobs and underpinning sector resilience.

However, WTTC forecasts international visitor spending in the U.S. will fall by $12.5BN in 2025, leaving growth at just +0.7%. WTTC has warned that without destination promotion, traveller-friendly policies, and reduced visa costs, it could lose its competitive edge.

China, the world’s second-largest Travel & Tourism market, contributed $1.64TN to its economy in 2024, and is forecast to surge by 22.7% in 2025, adding $260BN to its economy, highlighting China’s rapid return to international prominence and its pivotal role in shaping global travel flows.

Japan, the world’s fifth largest Travel & Tourism economy with a $310.5BN contribution in 2024, is forecast to add a further $13.8BN to its GDP this year to reach almost $325BN.

Travel & Tourism is now growing faster than the consumer goods sector, showing how people increasingly value experiences over material goods.

The Economic Impact Research Trends report shows that Travel & Tourism is cementing its role as a cornerstone of the global economy.

Middle East Momentum

The Middle East remains one of the fastest-growing regions in the world for Travel & Tourism, with Saudi Arabia continuing to stand out as a global powerhouse, with inbound visitor spend surging and infrastructure investment reaching record levels.

Across the region, capital is flowing into airports, cruise terminals, and cutting-edge hospitality projects, signalling long-term confidence in its ambition to become a global tourism hub.

Jobs Boom Across the World

According to the report, Travel & Tourism supported 357MN jobs in 2024 and is set to rise to 371MN in 2025, along with an increase in the sector’s share of global employment.

By 2035, one in eight jobs worldwide will be supported by Travel & Tourism, with an additional 91MN new jobs supported, the majority in the Asia-Pacific region, resulting in one in three new jobs globally supported by the sector.

Long-Term Confidence

Confidence in Travel & Tourism remains unshakable. Global investment in the sector surpassed $1TN in 2024, up 9.9% year-on-year, and is forecast to continue climbing in 2025.

The U.S., China, Saudi Arabia, and France together accounted for more than half a trillion dollars of that investment.

Italy attracted €11.4BN in 2024, reinforcing its position as one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for sustainable and innovative tourism development.

The Global Summit is hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Other WTTC Partners include Antonio Lefebvre d’Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philantrophy, Arsenale Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia, and Trip[.]com Group.

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Rome, Italy, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / At the opening ceremony of its 25th Global Summit in Rome today, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) officially welcomed Manfredi Lefebvre, one of the most recognised names in Travel & Tourism, as its new Chair, succeeding Greg O’Hara, who has led the organisation since November 2023.

A visionary entrepreneur, Lefebvre is Executive Chairman of Heritage Group and Executive Chairman of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.

Lefebvre is a pioneer in luxury travel, transforming Silversea Cruises into a global leader, expanding its operations to more than 900 destinations before its sale to Royal Caribbean Group.

With more than four decades of experience, his influence extends across luxury travel, leisure, and diversified investments spanning biotechnology, energy transition, and real estate.

Reflecting on his tenure, outgoing Chair Greg O’Hara said: “It has been an incredible honour to serve as Chair of WTTC over the past two years, working alongside our Members to champion one of the world’s most dynamic sectors. Travel & Tourism is an extraordinary force for good, creating jobs, driving growth, and connecting people across cultures.

“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I know that under Manfredi’s leadership WTTC will continue to go from strength to strength. His vision, passion, and proven track record make him the ideal Chair to guide the Council into its next chapter.”

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Global Summit, Manfredi Lefebvre, said: “As I step into the role of WTTC Chair today, I am both honoured and invigorated. The World Travel and Tourism Council has been a cornerstone of our industry, championing resilience and progress. Travel is not just an industry; it is a profound passion that connects people.

“Together with our Members, I am committed to driving forward and responsible innovation, ensuring our sector not only recovers but thrives in the new world we are shaping. I extend my deepest gratitude to Greg for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment.”

Gloria Guevara, WTTC Interim CEO, added “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Greg for steering WTTC with distinction and warmly welcome Manfredi as WTTC’s new Chair.

“His unparalleled experience across cruise, leisure, luxury travel, and diversified investments will guide WTTC’s mission of realising the potential of Travel & Tourism globally, which is set for another record-breaking year, contributing $2.1TN to the global economy in 2025.”

Beyond his leadership in the Travel & Tourism sector, Lefebvre also holds senior positions across a wide range of companies and institutions. He serves as Vice-Chairman of Arqit Quantum, Global Senior Advisor at Rothschild & Co, and holds honorary diplomatic and cultural roles, including Honorary Consul of Ecuador in Monaco.

His contributions have been recognised with prestigious decorations including the Orders of Saint Charles and Grimaldi.

The event is hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.

Other WTTC Partners include Antonio Lefebvre d’Ovidio Di Bolsonaro Philantrophy, Arsenale Spa, Chase Travel (JPMC), Giacomo Milano, MMGY, MSC Group, Terme di Saturnia, and Trip[.]com Group.

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Bangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (RBSO) on the 21st October 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre, will present a special themed concert “Symphonic Galaxy”. This special concert is supported by B.Grimm to showcase an orchestral celebration of the greatest soundtracks from science fiction (Sci-Fi) cinema. This concert aims to reimagine futuristic epic style of science-fiction songs in classical form.

The RBSO invites audiences on an unforgettable journey across time, space, and imagination under the baton of esteemed Resident conductor Vanich Potavanich, the evening will be a dazzling exploration of iconic music that has defined generations of movie enthusiasts.

Dr. Potavanich is one of Thailand’s leading conductors and was awarded the Silpathorn Artist Awards in 2014, awarded by the Ministry of Culture. He has appeared regularly as guest conductor of the RBSO since 1995.

Experience the opening soundtracks of John Williams’ Star Wars to the soaring melodies of James Horner’s Avatar, this concert promises a galaxy of emotions, epic battles, heartfelt themes, and music of distant worlds. The programme continues with thrilling suites from Jurassic World, Back to the Future, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and includes one of John Williams’ most beloved creations, E.T.’s The Flying Theme. With its combination of legendary scores and the power of a live orchestra, “Symphonic Galaxy” will be an impressive experience that promises to transporting audiences from the edge of the stars to the depths of human imagination.

Tickets are available at Thai Ticket Major: www.thaiticketmajor.com/concert/rbso-2025-symphonic-galaxy.html

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Bangkok, Thailand, September 30, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Blue by Alain Ducasse, a one-Michelin-star fine dining French restaurant, presents a new dimension of flavors with the exclusive dining experience “Blue by Alain Ducasse x Baan Tepa 4-Hands Dinner”, born from the collaboration of two world-class chefs: Chef Evens Lopez, Executive Chef of Blue by Alain Ducasse, a one-Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant for five consecutive years, and Chef Tam Chudaree Debhakam, owner of Baan Tepa, a two-Michelin-starred Thai fine dining restaurant and winner of Asia’s Best Female Chef 2025 from Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. They will jointly create a special dinner for guests to experience exceptional flavors on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Blue by Alain Ducasse, 1st Floor, ICONSIAM.

Blue by Alain Ducasse x Baan Tepa 4-Hands Dinner” is the meeting of two world-class chefs who will blend two culinary cultures: contemporary French cuisine and Thai cuisine using local ingredients. Guests will experience an evening of flavors and inspiration through a six-course menu, designed and crafted exclusively for this special night. The menu emphasizes the integration of local ingredients and Thai culinary wisdom by Chef Tam, combined with the meticulous French cooking techniques of Chef Evens, creating a harmonious exchange of diverse yet balanced flavors.

Chef Evens Lopez, a Peruvian chef with extensive global experience, has honed his expertise in numerous two and three-Michelin-starred restaurants across Italy, the United States, France, and London, including Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse in Monaco, before taking on the role of Executive Chef at Blue by Alain Ducasse, a contemporary French fine dining restaurant awarded one Michelin star for five consecutive years at ICONSIAM. He is distinguished by his creative approach combined with meticulous French techniques and a strong passion for local ingredients.

Chef Tam Chudaree Debhakam, a talented Thai female chef, who was awarded Asia’s Best Female Chef 2025 by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants and is the owner of Baan Tepa, a two-Michelin-starred Thai fine dining restaurant. Beyond her acclaimed flavors, she emphasizes sustainability and the Farm-to-Table principle, selecting seasonal ingredients from small-scale farmers across the country and using herbs grown in her own garden. Her dishes are meticulously crafted to present contemporary Thai cuisine that excels in appearance, aroma, taste, and texture, all within the warm ambiance of a beautiful old house.

With the combined talents of these two world-class chefs, this collaboration is a landmark event that culinary enthusiasts should not miss. The six-course menu is priced at THB 9,900++, with an optional six-glass wine pairing available for THB 5,900++.

Those interested in experiencing this extraordinary culinary journey at “Blue by Alain Ducasse x Baan Tepa 4-Hands Dinner” can make reservations at: bit.ly/427OCqB, via email reservations@blue-alainducasse.com, or by phone +66(0)6-5731-2346.

Join to explore a new dimension of flavor and enjoy this special dinner on October 8, 2025, from 6:00 PM onwards.

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Cusco, Peru, September 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / On the 26th, Nami Island achieved outstanding results at The 2025 Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards, hosted by Skål International, a leading international organization in the global tourism industry, and was recognized internationally for its value. The awards ceremony was held at the opening session of the 84th Skål International World Congress in Cusco, Peru.

This year’s awards were announced on September 26, one day ahead of World Tourism Day (September 27), established by UN Tourism. The 2025 World Tourism Day theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, added even greater significance to Nami Island’s achievement.

Among 106 entries from 30 countries across eight categories, Nami Island was honored with 4th place globally in the “Accessible Tourism” category, marking the island as Korea’s only awardee this year.

Founded in Paris in 1934 and now headquartered in Torremolinos, Spain, Skål International is one of the oldest global tourism organizations and an official affiliate of UN Tourism. With more than 12,000 members across airlines, hotels, travel agencies, resorts, MICE, tourism boards, and media, Skål operates through 297 clubs in 85 countries. Its Sustainable Tourism Awards are considered among the most prestigious recognitions in the international tourism industry, honoring innovative projects that demonstrate environmental, social, and cultural sustainability.

Nami Island was recognized as an “Island of Life” where nature and culture coexist, an open and inclusive island for all, and a sustainable destination engaging with local communities while protecting the environment. The judging panel highlighted:

• Creative transformation of tourism resources
• Eco-friendly design minimizing environmental disruption
• Comprehensive sustainability initiatives, including environmental education
• Pollution reduction and waste management systems
• Strong community involvement through local sourcing and hiring

Particularly notable were Nami Island’s systematic waste management, upcycling initiatives that go beyond recycling, and measures to prevent noise and light pollution—practical actions that contributed to high evaluations.

Over the decades, Nami Island has restored its natural ecosystem and cultivated the entire island as a living garden. Beyond preserving nature, it provides educational value by offering visitors opportunities to experience and learn the importance of the environment firsthand. Eco-friendly transportation methods within the island reduce noise and carbon emissions, while unique approaches such as the zip-wire minimize environmental impact, earning further praise.

Long dedicated to water preservation, chemical reduction, and pollution minimization, Nami Island has become a model of sustainable tourism. Its creative reuse of waste as art and tourism resources has been recognized as an exemplary practice of upcycling.

Nami Island previously won the Skål Asia Environment Award 2018 at the 47th Skål Asia Area Congress in Macau, recognized for its 4R principles—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recovery—and eco-friendly cultural management. This year’s honor reaffirms the island’s long-standing commitment to sustainability on the global stage.

In addition, Nami Island’s strong community partnership was acknowledged. By prioritizing local products, employing local residents, and fostering shared growth, the island has built a model of sustainable tourism that goes beyond operating a destination to advancing regional prosperity.

A Nami Island representative stated:

“It is deeply meaningful for Nami Island’s sustainable tourism practices and commitment to inclusive travel to be recognized on the global stage by Skål International. We will continue to grow as an island where nature and culture coexist, and as a destination open to everyone.”

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Vancouver, Canada, September 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Destination Think is proud to announce that it will once more host its global event, 24 Hours of Travel Innovation, for World Tourism Day 2025. Honouring UNTWO’s theme, the online event will showcase how destinations are leading responsible transformation in tourism.

24 Hours of Travel Innovation will spotlight ambitious and inspiring leaders from the Collective, a global group of forward-thinking destinations facilitated by Destination Think. Featuring presentations from destinations in Canada, Europe, the United States, New Zealand, and Australia, this educational showcase will highlight practical insights and real-world examples of how destinations are tackling climate, community, and cultural challenges to inspire and accelerate industry-wide change.

The program consists of 27 interview-style presentations highlighting destination leaders. These presentations showcase best practices and create a lasting knowledge-sharing hub for the industry, covering topics such as:

• Shift into Park Mode: How new transit options help protect Banff and Lake Louise (Banff & Lake Louise Tourism, Canada)
• The art of appropriate growth: Balancing tourism development with community values (City of Coffs Harbour, Australia)
• Beyond Growth: How Taos Embraces Traditional Wisdom for Sustainable Tourism (Town of Taos, USA)
• How travel is protecting kiwi and planting forests in Hauraki Coromandel (Destination Hauraki Coromandel, New Zealand)
• Want travellers to be greener? Rely on rewards (Wonderful Copenhagen, Europe)

Rodney Payne, CEO at Destination Think says, “The second year of 24 Hours of Travel Innovation is a moment to highlight the innovations, big and small, of the leading destinations we are collaborating with. Their genuine efforts are proving that tourism is capable of helping to shape better futures. In celebrating local innovation, we aim to inspire others to leverage travel as a way to benefit society and our planet.”

The Collective members will take viewers on a journey across continents to meet pioneers who are radically re-thinking tourism to make it work for people and the planet.

With international tourism poised for record-breaking growth, and UN Tourism warning of the urgent need for sustainable transformation, 24 Hours of Travel Innovation serves as a global call to action: to rethink tourism’s role in creating positive social, cultural, environmental, and economic outcomes.

The online event is accessible to all and free of charge. Register your interest in attending.

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Melaka, Malaysia, September 28, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / UN Tourism celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 in the historic city of Melaka, Malaysia, under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” This global Day of Recognition for the sector and its vital importance marked a pivotal moment in advancing tourism as a catalyst for positive change, resilience, and sustainable development worldwide.

The celebrations, hosted with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia, brought together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and local communities to share innovative ideas and chart a sustainable future for the tourism sector. The celebrations aligned with the 7th edition of the World Tourism Conference (WTC), showcasing Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and commitment to sustainable tourism.

A Global Call for Sustainable Action

This year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” underscored tourism’s potential to drive social progress, economic growth, and environmental stewardship. The event highlighted the need for good governance, strategic planning, and inclusive policies to ensure tourism benefits all while preserving cultural and natural heritage. Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, H.E. Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, welcomed participants from around the world to Melaka at the opening of World Tourism Day 2025 and the 7th World Tourism Conference.

In his official message, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized, “Tourism is a powerful driver of transformation. It creates jobs, fuels local economies, and builds bridges across cultures. Yet, it must be sustainable to protect the very places and communities it celebrates. Let’s harness tourism as a force for resilience, sustainability, and shared progress.”

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili added, “World Tourism Day 2025 in Melaka has shown the world that tourism can be a force for good when guided by sustainability and inclusivity. By working together, we can transform tourism into a tool for empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental protection.”

Highlights of World Tourism Day 2025

Affirming this commitment, the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, The Right Honourable Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah bin Yusof, on behalf of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, today officiated the opening of World Tourism Day 2025 and the 7th World Tourism Conference in Melaka.

Highlighting tourism’s role as a unifying force, the Deputy Prime Minister stressed that growth must be inclusive and resilient, underpinned by sustainability, innovation, and global cooperation. He outlined Malaysia’s initiatives – from expanding high-value tourism segments and digital nomad hubs, to investments in sustainable aviation fuel and community-led ecotourism – as examples of balancing economic progress with social and environmental responsibility. He also announced that Malaysia will join the UN Tourism International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) with a pilot project in Mersing, Johor.

The celebrations in Melaka featured a series of activities, including high-level panel discussions and cultural showcases focused on sustainable tourism practices and innovative strategies geared towards the resilience of the tourism industry. The focus was placed on building sustainable transformation through:

• Investing in Education and Skills: Programmes to empower women, youth, and marginalized communities through tourism-related training and employment opportunities.
• Accelerating innovation and digital transformation: Identifying tourism game-changers, including entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups and supporting them to transform ideas into action and scale-up. Investing in digital education and closing the ‘digital gap’ through empowering rural communities, youth and post-conflict societies.
• Supporting Local Economies: Promoting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises to ensure tourism benefits reach local communities.
• Cultural Exchange: Showcasing Malaysia’s vibrant heritage through performances, culinary experiences, and exhibitions, reinforcing tourism’s role in preserving traditions.

World Tourism Conference 2025: A Framework for Collaboration

Held in the framework of World Tourism Day, the 7th edition of the World Tourism Conference (WTC) in Melaka served as a platform for fostering stronger bonds and innovative ideas for the global tourism industry.

The conference brought together stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustainable tourism development, focusing on resilience, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Key sessions explored topics such as digital transformation in tourism, community-based tourism models, and climate-neutral travel solutions, aligning with the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”

Looking Ahead

To conclude the official celebrations, Malaysia handed over the hosting of World Tourism Day to El Salvador. World Tourism Day 2026, will be held around the theme of “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to redesign tourism” and address the role of tourism in embracing digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI).

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