Malaysia to host TAFI meet

After a gap of four years, the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) will organise its first convention at Kuching in Sarawak, Malaysia, from 20 to 23 September this year.

TT Bureau

After announcing India as its convention venue early this year, the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) has now confirmed Kuching in Malaysia as its new destination for the convention. It will be held from September 20-23, 2022 with the theme ‘Build Back Better’. Elaborating on the theme, TAFI President Ajay Prakash said, “As we seek recovery post-COVID, it is vital that the tourism industry does not forget the lessons of the pandemic. As one of the biggest global industries, the power of tourism to shape the world is phenomenal. It can be a powerful force for doing good, not only for the stakeholders but for the entire world. ‘Build Back Better’ encapsulates the resolve to rebuild tourism in a more responsible and sustainable manner.”

The convention committee is chaired by Seeraj Sabharwal and Jigar Dudakiya is Deputy Chairman. Commenting on the choice of destination, Sabharwal said, “Sarawak is a relatively unexplored destination for the Indian Traveller. It is an excellent destination for family travel, honeymooners, MICE, weddings and the film industry. TAFI has often organised conventions in unusual locations to expand the portfolio of travel agents and tour operators in India.”

Deputy Chairman Jigar Dudakiya further commented on the choice of the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) that has state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. He said, “BCCK is the first International purpose-built convention centre in Kuching. The convention centre can host up to 5,000 people with an uninterrupted WI-FI internet services for up to 8,000 simultaneous users.”

Prakash added, “There is an excitement among members since a convention is happening after four years. We expect an excellent turnout of delegates and speakers. Sarawak is at the forefront of responsible, sustainable eco-tourism and is the ideal destination to begin our journey to Build Back Better.”