Asheaf AboArafe
At the opening ceremony of ASEAN TOURISM FORUM 2025, minister of tourism,arts and culture of Malaysia, YB DATO SRI TIONG KING SING, gave a speech as follows:
SELAMAT datang and a warm welcome to Johor Bahru, a city full of vibrancy and charm. It gives me great pleasure to address you today at the Opening Ceremony of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2025.
First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to the Right Honourable Deputy Prime Minister, Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof for gracing this occasion and delivering the keynote address. Your presence here today will set a powerful tone for this forum and encourage all to work together for a better future in ASEAN tourism.
To my fellow ASEAN Tourism Ministers, representatives from our dialogue partner countries and all distinguished guests, thank you for joining us. Your presence here signifies the strong partnership and collaborative spirit that continue to define ASEAN’s success in building a strong and resilient tourism landscape.
I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the Right Honourable Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Chief Minister of Johor and the people of Johor for their strong support and cooperation in making ATF 2025 possible. Hosting this important event in Johor not only highlights the state’s rich culture and modern development but also reflects Malaysia’s vision of promoting emerging tourism destinations.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I’ll keep my remarks brief today; otherwise, my boss might be left with nothing to say later.
This year’s forum is important as Malaysia takes on the role of ASEAN Chairman with the theme “Unity in Motion, Shaping ASEAN Tourism Tomorrow.” It celebrates our achievements and highlights the need for teamwork to address challenges and capture opportunities in the changing tourism industry.
As we come together this week for discussions, networking, and new ideas, let us adopt the spirit of ASEAN unity to build a sustainable, inclusive, and strong future for tourism—one that supports our communities, protects our heritage, work hands in hands, and positions ASEAN as a significant presence on the international stage.
In closing, I once again thank our Deputy Prime Minister, Chief Minister of Johor, fellow Tourism Ministers, the government and people of Johor, the ASEAN Secretariat, our valued partners and sponsors, and everyone who has worked diligently to make this event a success. Your efforts show what we can achieve when we work together with a common purpose.
With that, I warmly welcome you to the ATF 2025. May this gathering be productive, interesting and drive transformative outcomes for ASEAN tourism.
Terima kasih. Thank you.
