Thursday 13 October 2011

ATF 2012 - "Tourism for a Global Community of Nations”

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) is a cooperative regional effort to promote the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region as one tourist destination. This annual event involves all the tourism industry sectors of the 10 member nations of ASEAN: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Each year, the hosting of ATF is rotated among the member countries. ATF 2012 marks the 31st anniversary of this event since its inauguration in Malaysia in 1981. Indonesia will host ATF 2012 and is all geared up to welcome over 1,600 delegates which includes about 400 international buyers and 100 international media. ATF will be held in Manado, the capital city of North Sulawesi province.

A welcome message was recently given by Ir. Jero Wacik, the SE. Minister of Culture and Tourism, Republic of Indonesia. He said  “Dear Distinguished Delegates. On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, I would like to extend my warmest welcome to all ASEAN and Dialogue Partners Tourism Ministers, Heads of NTOs, buyers, sellers and international media to the 31st ASEAN Tourism Forum 2012. ATF 2012 is themed “ASEAN Tourism for Global Community of Nations”, which will be staged on January 8th – 15th, 2012 in Manado, Indonesia."

Ir. Jero Wacik
"It is with pride and delight that Indonesia hosts this prestigious event that celebrates ASEAN Tourism. ATF 2012 is a great platform for tourism cooperation between the ASEAN countries to facilitate economic development and environmental conservation."

"We are also happy to have this opportunity to share magnificent Manado with all our distinguished guests. Manado is famous as a diver’s paradise, but also offers wonderful hospitality infrastructure, diverse, and stunning landscapes. The people of Manado and the rest of Indonesia are all keen to give you a taste of the famed Indonesian hospitality during ATF 2012."

"Tourism has always been a focal point of the Indonesian economy. Constant efforts are made to provide a destination that is a blend of natural beauty, cultural riches and modern facilities that are at par with any destination in the world. Our guests’ safety and enjoyment is of prime importance. Our special focus in Eco Tourism in particular has been an effective tool for conservation and protection of natural resources while also leading to inclusive development of local communities."

"I hope that ATF 2012 will provide a great opportunity for all participating countries to discuss new ideas, exchange knowledge and experiences and share products and services which will make Tourism ASEAN a force to reckon with."

"I wish you all a very successful ATF 2012, and a pleasant stay in Indonesia."
Ir. Jero Wacik, SE , Minister of Culture and Tourism, Republic of Indonesia.

For more information about ATF 2012 see the web site http://www.atfindonesia.com/

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