ASEAN-China Tourism Dialogue Strengthens Regional Tourism Ties in Langkawi
Malaysia hosted the ASEAN-China Tourism Dialogue in Langkawi, bringing together over 300 delegates to discuss deeper tourism cooperation between the two regions.
Langkawi played host to the ASEAN-China Tourism Dialogue this July, bringing together more than 300 delegates including tourism officials from across ASEAN member states and China, along with industry representatives.
The dialogue, held as part of Malaysia's Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, focused on deepening tourism cooperation between the two regions, covering everything from connectivity and travel ease to sustainable tourism and new tourism products.
Deepening Regional Ties
In his keynote address, Malaysia's Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Tiong King Sing, noted that ASEAN and China have enjoyed a long-standing partnership, with much more potential ahead. “There is still huge potential ahead by improving connectivity, making travel easier, promoting sustainable tourism, and developing new tourism products together. ASEAN and China can create even greater opportunities for shared growth and prosperity,” he said.
Tiong also proposed establishing a regular ministerial-level dialogue between China and ASEAN on tourism, to allow more in-depth discussion on policy, marketing, recovery, and crisis response. The ASEAN Secretary-General delivered pre-recorded remarks at the event.
Beyond the Conference Room
Discussions also touched on tourism safety and industry standards, aiming for a safer, more standardised and competitive regional tourism ecosystem.
The following day, delegates were taken beyond the meeting room for a technical visit to Kilim Geoforest Park, the Langkawi Craft Complex, and a Langkawi sunset cruise, showcasing the island's ecotourism, cultural heritage, and hospitality.
Local Operators on the Ground
Events at this scale rely on a lot of coordination behind the scenes. ZahraGO, usually known for car rental in Sabah, was one of the local transport providers handling delegate movement throughout the week, from airport arrivals to hotel and venue transfers.
