World Tourism Day 2025: Tourism and the Sustainable Transformation

With the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, this year’s World Tourism Day was held on September 27 in Melaka (Malaysia), emphasizing the transformative potential of tourism as an agent of positive change.

The central area of ​​Melaka holds many ancient religious and cultural relics.

Tourism is a powerful driver of opportunity.

Realizing the transformational potential requires more than mere growth. It requires good governance, strategic planning, close monitoring and clear priority setting, aligned with long-term sustainable development goals.

Tourism is not only an economic sector, but also a catalyst for social progress, providing education, employment and creating new opportunities for all.

To harness these benefits, a thoughtful and comprehensive approach is needed, one that puts sustainability, resilience and social equity at the heart of tourism development and decision-making.

In fact, tourism creates jobs and strengthens the bonds between people, people and destinations, reminding us of our common humanity, stressed United Nations Secretary-General António Manuel de Oliveira Guterres.

“But it can also be damaging to the very places and communities it celebrates. As the world faces climate breakdown and rising inequality, we need a bold, urgent and sustainable shift that puts people and planet first,” said António.

“On this World Tourism Day, we recognize the important role tourism plays in shaping that change. To deliver on this promise, tourism must be inclusive, equitable and green,” the UN Secretary-General said in his message on transforming tourism.

That means investing in education and skills, especially for women, youth and minority communities; supporting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that are the backbone of local economies; and protecting our planet, conserving biodiversity, protecting ecosystems and reducing emissions across the tourism sector.

“Today and every day, let us harness the power of tourism and help shape a more sustainable future for all,” said Mr. António.

As the host country of World Tourism Day 2025, Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing extended a warm welcome to the delegates who will attend the event.

“Malaysia is extremely excited and looking forward to extending a heartfelt invitation to everyone around the world to join us in celebrating World Tourism Day (WTD) and the 7th World Tourism Conference (WTC) in the historic state of Melaka,” Dato’ said.

The 7th World Tourism Congress will be an important platform to foster closer ties, share innovative ideas and jointly chart a sustainable future for global tourism, in line with the theme of this year’s World Tourism Day (WTD) “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”.

“Malaysia is proud to open up and showcase its diverse natural and cultural heritage, breathtakingly serene landscapes, rich culinary heritage and warm hospitality to visitors from all over the world,” said Dato.

As this important global event takes place in vibrant and culturally rich Malaysia, the country will demonstrate that travel is not just about visiting beautiful places but also about creating positive change, protecting the planet and enriching lives – ensuring no one is left behind.

“We underscore Malaysia’s mission to make tourism a force for good – ensuring our beautiful natural wonders are preserved, our diverse cultures are celebrated, and local communities truly benefit,” Dato’ shared.

Melaka is one of the top 10 destinations, attracting a large number of tourists to Malaysia. Melaka Old Town was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2008.

Redefining tourism

Following the global recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, the United Nations Tourism Agency’s call to “Reimagine Tourism – From Crisis to Transformation” has laid the foundation for a fundamental paradigm shift.

By 2024, international tourism has recovered impressively with 1.4 billion visitors globally, up 115% compared to 2023. The Asia-Pacific region has witnessed strong growth, reaching 87% compared to pre-pandemic levels.

This global resurgence has paved the way for a new vision: Tourism leading the way in sustainable, inclusive and resilient transformation. This is reflected in the theme of World Tourism Day 2025, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”.

This is a timely and necessary call to reimagine tourism not only as a driver of growth but also as a foundation for equitable development, cultural and heritage conservation, flora and fauna protection, environmental protection and community resilience.

Shaping the future of tourism

The World Tourism Conference taking place on September 28 in Melaka will have 3 discussion sessions. Session 1: Empowering economies through inclusive tourism, including presentations and speeches on the theme: Leveraging tourism for inclusive growth and national economic recovery; Regenerating tourism destinations through a comprehensive approach, systemic cooperation and innovative business models.

Session 2 From policy to practice of sustainable tourism development with presentations revolving around the topic Exploiting the role of tourism in enhancing sustainable transformation: A global policy perspective.

Session 3 Tourism in the Age of Artificial Intelligence and Innovation discusses the Future Direction of Tourism in the Age of Artificial Intelligence and Uncertainty.

Within the framework of World Tourism Day 2025, on September 29, the ASEAN Tourism Ministers Summit will take place with roundtable discussions and ministerial dialogues.

On the same day, delegates will attend a hands-on program on Eco Cruise Melaka, Sungai Linggi; visit the Dutch Trail and heritage sites; visit Rasa-rasa Melaka, experience cuisine and learn about Malaysian culinary heritage.

Source: https://bvhttdl.gov.vn/ngay-du-lich-the-gioi-2025-du-lich-va-chuyen-doi-ben-vung-20250821144722841.htm