ASEANTA 2026: Malaysia, Philippines & Top Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

CEBU, Philippines – The Philippines shone as a premier tourism destination, hosting the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence on January 27, 2026, at the JPark Island Resort in Mactan, Cebu. The awards, organized by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) Philippines in collaboration with the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, celebrated outstanding achievements across the Southeast Asian tourism sector.

The ceremony recognized nine tourism service providers for their contributions to the region’s thriving travel industry, highlighting excellence in areas such as tourism marketing, innovative practices, cultural preservation, sustainable tourism initiatives, and superior service quality. This year’s theme, “Honoring ASEAN’s Best in Tourism Excellence. Your Story. ASEAN’s Stage,” underscored the importance of individual narratives in shaping the collective tourism identity of the ASEAN region.

Recognizing Regional Strengths

Among the distinguished awardees, Shroff Travel of the Philippines received the Best ASEAN Travel Article award, acknowledging their compelling storytelling and promotion of regional destinations. CSL Travel & Tours of Cambodia was honored as the Best ASEAN Tour Operator, recognized for crafting immersive and personalized travel experiences.

Demonstrating a commitment to responsible tourism, Sudamala Resorts of Indonesia earned the Best ASEAN Sustainability Program award. The resort’s dedication to eco-luxury tourism and fostering respect for nature set a new standard for sustainable practices in the region.

New Attractions and Innovative Marketing

The Philippines also received recognition for its innovative attractions, with Enchanted Kingdom Inc. Being named the recipient of the Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction award. The amusement park’s exciting rides and attractions contribute to the country’s growing appeal as a family-friendly destination.

AirAsia MOVE of Malaysia was awarded the Best ASEAN Marketing and Promotional Program, lauded for its innovative use of digital platforms to connect travelers with destinations across the ASEAN region. The program’s advanced marketing strategies have transformed the way tourists experience travel, offering new insights and increased accessibility.

Excellence in Hospitality and Cultural Preservation

Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa in Malaysia received the Best ASEAN Hotel Package award, offering travelers an exquisite getaway combining beachside relaxation with luxurious amenities. Borneo Nature Tours of Malaysia was recognized with two awards: Best ASEAN Hotel Cultural Eco-Lodge and Best ASEAN Cultural Preservation Effort Award, highlighting their commitment to preserving Borneo’s unique ecosystems and cultural heritage.

SMX Convention Center: A Regional Hub

The SMX Convention Center in Manila, Philippines, was honored as the Best ASEAN Convention Centre. Known for hosting international events and conventions, the SMX Convention Center exemplifies the Philippines’ capacity to cater to the needs of global visitors while maintaining high standards of service and facilities. Its state-of-the-art infrastructure makes it a key hub for business, technology, and cultural exchanges in the region.

The Future of ASEAN Tourism

Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, commended the winners, stating, “We commend you for representing the very best of what our region has to offer, and for setting the standard for excellence in ASEAN tourism.”

The ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence play a vital role in promoting the tourism industry across Southeast Asia. By recognizing those who excel in sustainability, cultural preservation, and service, the awards help shape the future of tourism in ASEAN, encouraging responsible growth and regional cooperation. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and eco-friendly experiences, the ASEAN region is poised to become a leading destination for responsible tourism.