Sustainability, Gen AI, and the forces moving ASEAN tourism in 2025
Malaysia is setting ambitious tourism goals with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM 2026), aiming to attract 35.6 million visitors and generate RM147.1 billion in tourism revenue. The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025, held in Johor Bahru, spotlighted key strategies to achieve these targets, including sustainabil [...]
OTAs: Game-changer or profit killer? Travel experts weigh in at ASEAN Tourism Forum
Who’s really winning in today’s online travel industry?
There’s no denying that Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) have reshaped the travel industry, serving as both an enabler and a challenge for hotels, airlines, and travellers. At a recent panel discussion at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025, held [...]
ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 spotlights sustainability and AI as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026
35.6 million and 147.1 billion. Keep these figures in mind as they are pivotal to Malaysia’s tourism industry as it gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM 2026). Simultaneously, the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025, held in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, from January 15 to 20, brought together over 1,000 dele [...]
Expats, BNPL and international credit cards are driving UAE’s high-growth payment market
Nuvei, a Canadian-based payments company with APAC headquarters in Singapore, recently launched a report called "Global Expansion Guide to High-Growth Markets", which provides a data-driven roadmap for businesses to expand into some of the world’s fastest-growing markets. Released quarterly, each [...]
HalalTrip’s Saudi ambitions in-sync with Kingdom’s Vision 2030 transformation
Singapore-based Muslim travel specialist aims to promote Saudi beyond Hajj and Umrah
The expansion of multi-layered tourist visas and a national drive to diversify the economy has positioned Saudi Arabia as a rising destination for both domestic and international tourists. Couple that with its sign [...]
Klook eyes US markets, further expansion in Asia, and new social commerce features in next phase of growth
"If we can bring that West-meets-East confluence to life, it could be a game-changer. We’re just getting started," says Klook's VP of Global Marketing
Interview with Marcus Yong conducted by Henry Beh
As Klook celebrates its 10th anniversary, the travel and experiences platform is positioning [...]
Expedia expands Travel Shops by collaborating with creators and celebrities, speaks to larger industry trend
Expedia Group announced the launch of more than 100 new shoppable Travel Shops curated by social media creators, tastemakers and brands. Travel Shops, described as an industry-first initiative, offer curated storefronts where users can explore and book accommodations based on the experiences shared [...]
Wego’s Veitch on new hub in Malaysia, growth in emerging markets, bed banks and business travel
“The corporate business has the potential to become as big as our consumer business eventually.”
Leading meta-search engine and largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East, North Africa & Asia Pacific, Wego, opened its new office in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia earlier this week. Though [...]
7 in 10 Singaporeans likely to reconsider relationships after travelling together, study reveals
In a recent study conducted by Bumble and Klook, it was revealed that travel plays a significant role in the relationships of Singaporeans, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials. The Roam-ance Study, which explored the intersection of love and travel, found that 73% of Singaporeans believe travel [...]
How community creators are shaping sustainable tourism
In an industry where sustainability and authentic experiences are increasingly sought after, some entrepreneurs, operating in niche spaces, have dedicated themselves to creating unique, meaningful experiences rooted in their love for their communities.
These creators— Eric Chong, Li-Chin Kuo, [...]
