KUCHING: In recognition of the important role and contribution the tourism sector has made to the economic and social development in the region, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) tourism ministers have adopted the Asean Joint Declaration on the Implementation of the United Nations World
Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.
In a joint media statement read by Minister of Tourism and Culture Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, they said it is mainly aimed at improving the overall quality of the lives of the people.
“Among others, the ministers have agreed to consider UNWTO’s Global Code of Ethics for Tourism as a possible means to sustainable and responsible tourism development,” he said at a press conference after chairing the 17th Meeting of Asean Tourism Ministers and the 13th Meeting of Asean Plus Three (China, Japan and Republic of Korea) Tourism Ministers at the Asean Tourism Forum (ATF) 2014 here yesterday.
On Asean tourism product development, Nazri commended the progress made in the implementation of the Asean Cruise Work Plan 2013, especially in showcasing Asean ports and attractions.
“Our officials will continue to work with relevant Asean bodies to address any challenges in developing the cruise industry in the region,” he said.
“The ministers also expressed their appreciation to Malaysia for its support in completing the publication of ‘The Magical Gardens of Asean’ to promote Asean parks and gardens and take note of the progress made in developing the Asean Ecotourism Strategic Plan which serves as an effective tool in promoting sustainable economic development through the conservation of nature-based tourism in the region,” Nazri added.
Also present at the press conference were tourism ministers from Asean countries.