PATA announces new Chair and Executive Board

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the ratification of the new PATA Executive Board. Soon-Hwa Wong has been formally endorsed as the Chair of the Association’s Executive Board and replaces Dr. Chris Bottrill.

On his appointment, Soon-Hwa said, “It is indeed an honour to be given the privilege to serve PATA members, especially in a time like this. PATA will celebrate a significant milestone, our 70th Anniversary, next year. We are embarking on a comprehensive organisation redesign that will transform PATA into an association that will lead the tourism industry into the post-COVID future and beyond. Together with our industry partners from both the public and private sector, we will commit to sustainable tourism development to benefit the economic wellbeing of the community at large. Come join us in our journey to build a safer and better world.”

Hai Ho was elected as the new Vice Chairman. He said, “Being one of the youngest elected Vice Chair at an important organisation with a deep history like PATA is the biggest honour I have ever received. I take on this role to contribute my part to both PATA and the global sustainable travel movement which is growing with strength and resilience around the world. I am mindful that we are still living in a COVID-19 world where our fellow tour guides, travel agents, hoteliers, etc. are fighting against all odds to keep travellers safe and sound.”

“It is a great honor to have been elected as the new Secretary/Treasurer. My focus will be both on the synergetic management and continual development of the travel industry. In taking on this role, I commit to work together with the executive team, management team and all our members for the responsible growth of PATA and the whole tourism communities,” Suman Pandey said on being elected as the Secretary/Treasurer.