The ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), in partnership with the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, once again hosted the annual ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence last January 28 at the JPark Island Resort in Lapu-Lapu City. The ceremony celebrated the region’s most impactful achievements in a night dedicated to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.
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 identity of the region. Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, ASEANTA president, emphasized the high standards met by this year’s recipients.
“The awardees represent the very best of ASEAN tourism—from sustainability leadership and cultural preservation to innovative marketing and world-class visitor experiences,” Soemawilaga stated. He further noted that these achievements demonstrate how individual destination excellence can drive a positive, ripple-effect impact for the entire ASEAN region.
Marga Montemayor-Nograles, COO of TPB Philippines, spoke to the spirit of the evening, noting that the gathering was “a moment for the ASEAN community to come together as one, honoring the pioneers whose work uplifts local destinations and empowers communities”.
This year’s winners of the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence:
- Best ASEAN Convention Centre: SMX Convention Centre, Philippines
- Best ASEAN Cultural Preservation Effort Award: Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN Eco-Lodge: Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN Hotel Package: Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN Marketing & Promotional Program: AirAsia MOVE, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction Award: Enchanted Kingdom Inc., Philippines
- Best ASEAN Sustainability Program: Sudamala Resorts, Indonesia
- Best ASEAN Tour Operator: CSL Travel & Tours, Cambodia
- Best ASEAN Travel Article: Shroff Travel, Philippines
As the industry looks toward the future, the ASEANTA Tourism Awards are expected to generate a lasting impact by encouraging regional players to continuously refine their services and sustainability practices. With a legacy spanning more than three decades, it remains one of the most respected regional accolades.
The 35th edition, which coincided with the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, continued this tradition by spotlighting organizations and individuals whose initiatives have set new benchmarks for quality and responsible development across ASEAN.
