Southeast Asia Revives Global Travel Meet, Boosts Connectivity

Malaysia revived the Global Travel Meet in 2025 after nearly two decades, drawing over 600 buyers, 400 sellers and 100 international media while officials promoted Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and a target of 47 million visitors anchored in sustainability and innovation. Regional cooperation is accelerating: Cambodia and Malacca are negotiating visa exemptions and expanding cultural, medical, religious and MICE tourism to ease travel and boost visitor flows. Zhejiang province is deepening tourism ties with Malaysia through high-level promotion events and tailor-made travel packages to showcase its nature and culture. China is promoting connectivity through Beijing Daxing International Airport in CICG’s “Connect With ASEAN” series, highlighting digital technologies and cold-chain logistics to strengthen the China–Southeast Asia air corridor. Bhutan recorded 145,065 arrivals in 2024 (up 41%), with Thailand, Singapore, Bangladesh, Malaysia and China cited as key source markets and a continued emphasis on preserving sustainability and cultural authenticity.