‘Lack of support from States’

TAFI convention will be held in Kuching in Sarawak, Malaysia, from 20-23 September 2022. The convention, originally planned in India, could not be organised in the country because of high cost of airfare and hotel rooms, as well as lack of support from state governments, says Ajay Prakash, National President, Travel Agents’ Federation of India.

TT Bureau

The upcoming convention of Travel Agents’ Federation of India (TAFI) will be held in Kuching in Sarawak, Malaysia from 20-23 September 2022. But TAFI had originally announced India as the venue for its convention. So what changed?

Ajay Prakash, President, TAFI, said, “We had originally planned to do this event within India. But we could not do it as planned because the domestic air fares and hotel rates were high. And honestly, the support that one receives from a global destination is far more than any state government is normally willing to offer. Having said that, we will definitely do a conclave or an event in India later this year because I think it is important to do something in the country.”

Why Kuching?

Kuching is in Malaysian Borneo, which is different from peninsular Malaysia, said Prakash. “For one, they are much greener, the forests are more vibrant, animal life is also interesting. Therefore, Kuching has been promoted as an eco-tourism destination. The venue will be the Borneo Convention Centre, which is quite spectacular and it is on a single level. It can accommodate 5,000 people and has Wi-Fi capability (8,000 connections),” he elaborated.

Sustainability key focus

The theme of the convention is ‘Build Back Better’. Sharing the thought process behind this, Prakash said, “It is an important part in defining the content of the convention. As we look to revive tourism, there are some things that we must not forget, things that COVID-19 has taught us. Nature has a way of striking back when you abuse it. The indiscriminate exploitation of natural resources will lead to a blowback from nature. Since tourism is dependent upon nature, it is critical that we nurture environment. As we look to regain profitability, it is equally important to look at sustainability. And that is what this convention is about – about rebuilding tourism in a much more intelligent and responsible manner. The new generation is aware of these issues as well as the ecological impact of their travels.”

Apart from business sessions, TAFI will conduct awards for outstanding women from India and Malaysia at the convention this year. “The rest of the agenda is coming together. The biggest supporter for this is Tourism Malaysia, Sarawak Tourism Board and Business Events Sarawak. Also, Malaysian Airlines, Malindo or Batik Air and Air Asia have offered us special fares. Unfortunately, none of the Indian airlines are flying into Kuching. Charters could be expensive, but it can be worked out, we would love to do charters,” Prakash added.

“Tourism is now expected to be more sustainable, responsible and sensitive and will be a force for bringing people together. Automation and optimization in technology are very important and can help. We must keep ourselves abreast of the latest technology available and use it to our best advantage to build a better travel and tourism industry. We need technology, tools and a change of attitude with which we do business.” Prakash further added.