JOHOR BAHRU, January 20 — ASEAN tourism ministers convened this morning to discuss strategies aimed at boosting regional tourism, with key priorities on simplifying cross-border travel policies and addressing scam tourism. The meeting, chaired by Malaysia’s Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, emphasized the need for streamlined policies to enhance tourist accessibility across member countries.
“Tourism is a vital pillar of economic growth in the region. Simplifying policies to increase tourist inflow is crucial. While security remains a priority, further discussions within our respective nations are needed,” Tiong said after chairing the 28th ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, held as part of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025.
Addressing scam tourism, Tiong urged ASEAN countries to tackle the issue collectively, noting it significantly affects visitor experiences. “We must take this issue seriously and find amicable solutions to problems tourists face,” he added. The ATF 2025, running from January 15 to 20, aims to strengthen regional tourism collaboration, promote ASEAN’s diverse offerings, and boost tourist arrivals through knowledge sharing and partnerships with global industry leaders.
