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Brand Finance Global 500: Trip.com Group Recognised Among the World’s Best, Only Asian Travel Services Provider to Rank

SINGAPORE, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Trip.com Group, the only Asian travel services company on the prestigious Brand Finance Global 500 list for 2025 has reached a historic milestone in its global journey. This marks its first appearance on the list since its rebranding in 2019, underscoring its growing influence worldwide. The company also secured the third place in online travel services, solidifying its leadership in the travel sector.

The Brand Finance Global 500 report, published by valuation consultancy Brand Finance, celebrates Trip.com Group’s innovative achievements and strong brand growth. Its progress is fuelled by cutting-edge AI-powered solutions and an unwavering commitment to customer service excellence. By integrating artificial intelligence into its offerings, the company provides travellers with smarter, more personalised options that enhance their experiences.

Among its flagship tools is TripGenie, an AI assistant that delivers tailored travel recommendations, significantly reducing decision-making time for users. Other tools, such as Trip.Best, Trip.Trends, and Trip.Deals, offer travellers top-rated, trending and value-for-money offerings at a glance. Meanwhile, the recently launched Trip.Gourmet, the Group’s culinary arm, elevates the travel experience with an AI-powered food ranking guide, making culinary exploration an integral part of any journey.

In the Leisure & Tourism category, Trip.com Group ranks 5th overall and 3rd in online travel services, reflecting its robust industry presence. The company has made a remarkable leap from 550th in 2024 to 452nd in 2025 on the Brand Finance Global 500 list. Its brand value has reached an all-time high of 5,399 million USD, representing a significant increase of 23.34% from the previous year’s value of 4,378 million USD.

The Brand Finance Global 500 list spans industries including Banking, Retail, Media, Electronics, Internet & Software, Telecoms, Automobiles, Insurance and more. This year, Apple leads the rankings with a brand value of USD 574.5 billion, followed by Microsoft (USD 461.1 billion), Google (USD 413.0 billion), and Amazon (USD 356.4 billion). Trip.com Group’s inclusion emphasises its exceptional growth and influence in a diverse and challenging landscape.

Globally, the top five countries by brand value in the Brand Finance Global 500 for 2025 are the United States (52.9%), China (15%), Germany (5.8%), Japan (5.1%), and France (4.4%). This distribution underscores the dynamic growth of Asian brands and amplifies the significance of Trip.com Group’s achievement as a leader in Asian travel services.

Brand Finance, a respected independent consultancy based in London, specialises in brand valuation and analysis. It ranks the world’s 500 most valuable brands by calculating brand value in US dollars, using a methodology based on the hypothetical license fees a company would pay if it did not own its brand. This approach highlights Brand Finance’s credibility in assessing global brand value.

This recognition reflects Trip.com Group’s progress in making travel more accessible and convenient for everyone. Staying true to its mission of enhancing customer experiences, the company remains committed to delivering innovations that shape the future of travel on a global scale.

 

Tai O Heritage Hotel Open House 2025 Where Heritage Meets Innovation

Click here to download high-resolution pictures.

HONG KONG, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tai O Heritage Hotel’s annual Open House will be held on 8 –9 February 2025, providing the public with the opportunity to explore this century-old heritage building and Hong Kong’s first UNESCO-awarded hotel first-hand.

Tai O Heritage Hotel Open House 2025
Tai O Heritage Hotel Open House 2025

This year promises even more excitement with vibrant festive decorations. In addition to Tai O delicacies and complimentary docent tours, for the first time, we incorporate AR (Augmented Reality) technology, offering guests a new way to appreciate the background and original appearance of this revitalised gem, which formerly served as the Tai O Police Station.

The well-received ‘Traditional Sampan Experience’ is making a comeback. Additionally, Tai O Heritage Hotel joins hands with the Tai O Cultural Association on ‘Traditional Fishing Net Weaving Workshop’, providing guests with an enriched experience of the nautical culture of Hong Kong’s charming fishing village.

Event Highlights

  • Augmented Reality Guided Tour Experience
  • Complimentary docent tours*
  • Traditional sampan experience*
  • Traditional fishing net weaving workshop*
  • Time-honoured cuisine at Tai O Lookout featuring local ingredients
  • Tailored public art piece and lion dance performances by Tai O students

Open House Room Package

Available on 7-9 February 2025, starting from HKD1,500*.

Privileges include:

  • One-night accommodation
  • Set breakfast for two
  • Open Day Special Set for two
  • Complimentary sampan boat ride* on designated dates

Reservations & details: https://www.taioheritagehotel.com/en/stay/packages/open-house-package/

Open House Offers

  • Guests registering docent tours online will receive a complimentary drink voucher^ for redemption of hotel’s signature drink, Mangrove Special, upon completing the tour.
  • Dine-in guests at Tai O Lookout during the Open House will receive a HK$50 dining voucher^, which can be used on the next visit.

Augmented Reality Guided Tour Experience
Augmented Reality Guided Tour Experience

Hotel Docent Tours

Youth ambassadors that have received training from Walk in Hong Kong will serve as docents, sharing fascinating stories about the hotel’s history as the Old Tai O Police Station. This year, for the first time, AR (Augmented Reality) technology will be utilised to showcase the hotel’s previous form as the Tai O Police Station, offering guests a vivid and immersive experience.

Docent Tour Timetable

Saturday, 8 February 2025

Sunday, 9 February 2025

12:30 – 1:30pm

11:00am – 12:00nn

2:00 – 3:00pm

12:30 – 1:30pm

3:15 – 4:15pm

2:00 – 3:00pm

4:30 – 5:30pm

3:15 – 4:15pm

4:30 – 5:00pm

Admissions: 120 persons per session, 20 minutes per session (on a first-come, first-served basis)

Assembly point: Tai O Heritage Hotel pavilion

Registration & details: https://www.taioheritagehotel.com/en/hotel-open-house/

Traditional Sampan Experience
Traditional Sampan Experience

Traditional Sampan Experience

The man-powered sampan was the main means of transporting and commuting at Tai O in the old days. Participants will board traditional sampans and learn about the maritime traditions from the helmsmen.

Tai O Heritage Hotel and Tai O Cultural Association join hands to present the ‘Traditional Sampan Experience’ on 9 February 2025. Each session lasts about 40 minutes and is divided into two parts. First, participants will watch a documentary at the Tai O Fishermen Image Gallery, which shares the traditional sampan building process and tools. After that, participants will board a traditional sampan for a scenic ride through the waterways, learning about the rich heritage of Hong Kong’s charming fishing village from a unique perspective. Local villagers will row the boat while sharing stories about the water village and sampan culture.

Traditional Sampan Experience Timetable

Sunday, 9 February 2025

12:00nn – 12:40pm

12:20 – 13:00pm

12:40 – 13:20pm

13:00 – 13:40pm

13:20 – 14:00pm

13:40 – 14:20pm

14:00 – 14:40pm

14:20 – 15:00pm

14:40 – 15:20pm

15:00 – 15:40pm

Admissions: 15 persons per session, around 40 minutes per session (on a first-come, first-served basis)

Assembly point: Tai O Fishermen Image Gallery (Opposite to Tai O Bus Terminus)

For details and registration, please visit the official Facebook page of the Tai O Cultural Association.

(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8WoYccIT423dwqGdBi4rsbsdpzoJYHy_qUeF7FqXgcazYTg/viewform)

Traditional Fishing Net Weaving Workshop

Hosted by the Tai O Cultural Association, local fishermen will demonstrate traditional craft to weave modern fishing net products, enabling guests to experience the indigenous fishing village culture. After the workshop, participants can take home their handmade creations to create lasting memories.

Venue: Tai O Heritage Hotel

Tai O Auspicious Art Installations

Spinning Good Wishes for the Year of the Snake

‘Spinning Good Wishes for the Year of the Snake’ comprises 138 dazzling, colourful windmills, which connote ‘movement of the heaven and earth’ and symbolises fortune, happiness and auspiciousness in Chinese culture. Tai O Heritage Hotel extends joy and hearty wishes to the community, wishing everyone a new year filled with boundless abundance and prosperity.

Auspicious Blessings Lanterns

Featuring 18 vibrant lanterns, ‘Auspicious Blessings Lanterns’ illuminate the picturesque coastal scenery, radiating joy and festivity — an unmissable photo spot for capturing cherished moments with family and friends.

Open Day Special Set at Tai O Lookout

Tai O Lookout presents the ‘Open Day Special Set’, priced at HK$328* for two persons. Enjoy a smorgasbord of dishes loaded with Tai O indigenous flavours, such as Crispy Chicken Wings with Shrimp Paste, Mini Fish Fillet Burger with Shrimp Paste Tartar Sauce and Mountain Begonia Pancake.

Available from 11:30 am17:00 pm

Reservation: +852 2985 8383

*Terms and conditions apply.

^Available while stock lasts.

About the Hong Kong Heritage Conservation Foundation

Hong Kong Heritage Conservation Foundation Limited (HCF) is a not-for-profit organisation established by the Ng Family in March 2008. It identifies and showcases the heritage significance of historical projects. HCF holds the belief that conservation of cultural heritage helps the community to build a sense of identity and strengthen relationships in society. The primary objectives of HCF are to revitalise and conserve historic buildings, and to promote the appreciation and importance of cultural heritage to the community. Directors of HCF are enthusiastic supporters of community initiatives, and possess considerable experience in heritage buildings revitalisation projects. They have been actively involved in many heritage projects, including Tai O Heritage Hotel, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Waterboat House, Clifford Pier, Customs House and Far East Square.

www.hkheritage.org

About Tai O Heritage Hotel

Tai O Heritage Hotel, located in Shek Tsai Po Street, Tai O and surrounded by lush greenery, has been transformed from the 122-year-old Old Tai O Police Station, built in 1902 and graded as a Grade II historic building by the Antiquities Advisory Board. The hotel is part of Batch I of Hong Kong SAR Government Development Bureau’s Revitalising Historic Buildings through Partnership Scheme. Opened in March 2012 and operated as a not-for-profit social enterprise, Tai O Heritage Hotel provides free guided tours daily for the general public and charitable organisations with the aim of heightening awareness of the conservation of historic buildings. It is home to nine elegantly decorated rooms, the Heritage Interpretation Centre and the glass-roofed open-view restaurant Tai O Lookout. The Hotel has won the Award of Merit at UNESCO 2013 Asia- Pacific Cultural Heritage Awards and has been voted as ‘Asia’s Leading Heritage Hotel 2016′ in World Travel Awards™. It has welcomed more than 2 million visitors and guests since opening.

www.taioheritagehotel.com

Audience Invited to Try Martial Arts at Japanese Budo Event in Vientiane

the 22nd Japanese Martial Arts (Budo) Demonstration
the 22nd Japanese Martial Arts (Budo) Demonstration

On 25 January, Lao and Japanese martial artists gathered at the Budo Center to showcase the performance disciplines of  Kendo, Aikido, Karatedo, and Judo. The demonstration included a variety of training techniques, fighting skills, and the unique characteristics of each martial art.

The event, the 22nd Japanese Martial Arts (Budo) Demonstration, was organized by the Embassy of Japan in Laos, with practitioners affiliated with the Lao National Judo Federation, the Lao National Karatedo Federation, the Lao National Aikido Club, and the Lao Kendo Club.

Aikido
Aikido
Karatedo
Karatedo
Judo
Judo
Kendo
Kendo

 

 

 

 

                 “This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos. To commence this memorial year, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone visited Japan from 21 to 23 January. I am pleased to host today’s martial arts demonstration as a major event in Laos following Prime Minister Sonexay’s visit to Japan,” said Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador of Japan to Laos, in his opening speech.

During the event, members of the audience were invited to participate and learn basic martial arts skills from experienced instructors in a hands-on trial session.

“I am convinced that the spirit of martial arts, including courtesy and respect for others, which can be glimpsed in their posture and every gesture, will surely be passed on to the next generation,” the ambassador concluded.

 

Union Bancaire Privée increases its group profit to CHF 257.4 million in 2024

GENEVA, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ —

  • UBP realised a group profit of CHF 257.4 million in 2024, marking a substantial increase of 15.0% from the CHF 223.8 million achieved in 2023.
  • The operating result was CHF 312.4 million, up 16.0% from the previous year’s CHF 269.2 million.
  • Client assets grew by CHF 14.4 billion (+10.3%) to CHF 154.4 billion.
  • The Group’s Tier 1 capital ratio stood at 28.9%.

The Bank’s total income for the year was CHF 1.342 billion, representing growth of 9.4% compared with CHF 1.227 billion in 2023. This was fuelled by a 5% increase in fees and commissions driven not only by the rise in client assets but also by heightened brokerage activity among private clients (particularly in structured products). The rise in income was also achieved thanks to the net result from interest operations increasing by a robust CHF 81.4 million (+20.3%), reflecting the relevance of our interest rate hedging strategy.

Client assets grew by 10.3% to CHF 154.4 billion at the end of December 2024, compared with CHF 140.0 billion at the end of 2023, reflecting the strong performances of our investment solutions supported by global financial markets, as well as a positive exchange rate impact. Net new money from private clients (CHF +1.7 billion) was largely offset by outflows from large institutional clients taking profits, as well as the termination of partnerships with external fund managers.

Operating expenses rose to CHF 908.9 million (+9.1%), due to our continuous recruitment efforts in 2024, substantial investments in technology, and costs related to the acquisitions of Societe Generale Private Banking (Switzerland) Ltd and SG Kleinwort Hambros.

The operating result increased to CHF 312.4 million, a 16.0% growth from CHF 269.2 million in 2023, and the group profit for 2024 was CHF 257.4 million, up 15.0% from CHF 223.8 million a year earlier, resulting in a stable operating cost/income ratio of 67.7%.

With a balance sheet of CHF 40.9 billion as at the end of December 2024, UBP continues to maintain the firm financial foundations upon which to build its organic and external development.

The Group’s Tier 1 capital ratio remained stable at 28.9%, well above the minimum requirement under FINMA regulations and the Basel III accords. The short-term liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) – of 351.3%, up from 313.9% a year earlier – and Moody’s decision to maintain its Aa2 long-term deposit rating underscore UBP’s financial strength.

“Our solid results clearly demonstrate UBP’s ability to offer our private and institutional clients attractive investment solutions as well as the best quality of service. Client activity levels and net interest income remained strong in 2024, supported by a favourable financial environment. We continued to invest in our operations and infrastructure to meet the requirements of an increasingly complex regulatory environment. We also mobilised our resources to prepare for the integration of our two latest acquisitions, expected at the end of January in Switzerland and at the end of March in the UK, which will enable us to further expand our offering to clients thanks to the complementary strengths of our teams.” states UBP’s CEO, Guy de Picciotto.

About Union Bancaire Privée (UBP)

UBP is one of Switzerland’s leading private banks, and among the best-capitalised, with a Tier 1 capital ratio of 28.9%. The Bank is specialised in the field of wealth management for both private and institutional clients. Headquartered in Geneva, UBP employs 2,140 people in over twenty locations worldwide and holds CHF 154.4 billion in client assets (numbers as at 31 December 2024).

www.ubp.com

EMPOWERING ASIA PACIFIC: BE IN SABAH 2025 RETURNS FOR ITS SECOND EDITION

KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sabah is set to be centre stage for the global business events as it proudly hosts the 2nd International Business Events Forum – BE in SABAH 2025. Jointly organised by Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) and the Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (MACEOS), Sabah Chapter, this forum is scheduled to take place from 27 to 28 February 2025.

EMPOWERING ASIA PACIFIC: BE IN SABAH 2025 RETURNS FOR ITS SECOND EDITION
EMPOWERING ASIA PACIFIC: BE IN SABAH 2025 RETURNS FOR ITS SECOND EDITION

With its stunning natural beauty, strategic location, and world-class facilities at Sabah International Convention Centre, Sabah is poised to unite global leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, fostering collaboration and driving the industry forward.

With the strong support by the state government especially Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah and Yayasan Sabah Group as well as the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, the forum underscores Sabah’s rising influence as a premier destination for transformative business events.

A Transformative Theme: Empowering Asia Pacific Through Business Events

This year’s forum revolves around the theme, “Empowering Asia Pacific Through Business Events”, highlighting the region’s growing dominance in the global BE arena. With a focus on business growth, leveraging nature and culture, harnessing skills, cultivating leadership, and strategic planning, BE in SABAH 2025 promises to shape the future of the industry while showcasing Sabah’s unique charm as a premier destination.

Key Highlights of BE in SABAH 2025

1.    Engaging Keynote Speeches and Panels

    1. Global Economic Impacts of Business Events: Shaping the Future Growth of the Tourism Industry
    2. Unlocking Business Events Expansion Opportunities in Asia Pacific. How can East ASEAN leverage to fuel APAC Growth?
    3. Shaping the Future of Business Events – Is Our Business a Risky Business?
    4. Developing the Future Industry Leaders – Talent Acquisition and Retention in A Globalised Workplace
    5. The Role of Environmental Conservation in Tourism and Hospitality: For a Promising Future
    6. Community-Based Tourism: Empowering Local Communities
    7. Innovation and Impact: Embracing Triple Bottom Line Thinking for Lasting Results
    8. Charting the Growth: Asia Pacific Dominance in the Business Events Industry –  Challenges and Opportunities
    9. Why Events Fail: Designing for Impact

2.    Influential Speakers
Featuring a stellar line-up of industry leaders and changemakers, including:

  • Mr Senthil Gopinath, Chief Executive Officer, International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), The Netherlands
  • Datuk Dr. M Gandhi, Founder & Chairman of Bumiati Holdings Sdn Bhd cum President, Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (MACEOS), Malaysia
  • Dato’ Vincent Lim, President, C.I.S. Network Sdn Bhd cum Asian Federation for Exhibition & Convention Associations (AFECA), Malaysia
  • Mr Kai Hattendorf, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (2015-2024), France
  • Dame Doria (DC) Cordova, Chief Executive Officer, Excellerated Business Schools, United States of America
  • Mr Ruud Janssen, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Event Design Collective GmBH, Switzerland

3.    Networking Opportunities
Connect with international stakeholders, top-tier corporate buyers, and regional government leaders, creating valuable partnerships to elevate your business.

According to Datuk Dr Hajah Rosmawati Haji Lasuki, J.P., CEO of Sabah International Convention Centre and Organising Chairperson of BE in SABAH 2025, BE in SABAH 2025 is not just an event; it is a platform for transformative dialogue and actionable strategies that redefine the role of business events in economic growth and cultural preservation. Sabah’s unique position in East ASEAN makes it a vital hub for fostering collaboration, and we are excited to welcome global stakeholders to experience the synergy of our natural wonders, vibrant culture, and dynamic business potential.”

Sabah Land Below The Wind

Sabah offers a one-of-a-kind experience, blending the sophistication of a world-class Business Travel destination with the rich cultural and natural heritage of Borneo. Its strategic location within the East ASEAN Growth Area makes it a gateway to emerging markets, offering unmatched potential for collaboration and innovation.

Attendees will also have the chance to enjoy exclusive post-event activities, including eco-tourism adventures, cultural immersions, and culinary tours that celebrate Sabah’s legacy and biodiversity.

Kota Kinabalu is easily accessible via direct international flights, which range from 2 to 6 hours. It is also accessible via a 2.5-hour connecting flight through Kuala Lumpur. Kota Kinabalu International Airport is only 20-minute drive to Sabah International Conventional Centre.

PR Newswire are the Official News Distribution partner for The 2nd International Business Events Forum – BE in SABAH 2025.

Call to Action: Register Now to Be Part of the Change

The 2nd International Business Events Forum – BE in SABAH 2025 is where ideas meet action, and opportunities are transformed into results. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the movement reshaping the Asia Pacific BE industry.

Register today to secure your spot and take advantage of early-bird rates. Visit www.beinsabah.com.my or email be.secretariat@siccsabah.com for more information.

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram @beinsabah to stay updated with the latest news and announcements.

For BE in SABAH Official Assets, please scan or click the link the below.

BE in SABAH Official Assets

ABOUT SICC

Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) is owned by Innoprise Corporation Sdn Bhd of Yayasan Sabah Group – a state sanctioned organization in Sabah, Malaysia. SICC is the largest waterfront purpose-built convention, exhibition and entertainment facility in East Malaysia with a total function space of 153,197sqm. The gross built-up of the complex is 60,514sqm on a 6-hectare site. The multi-functional complex with its well-designed floor plan and extensive pre-function areas are well suited for a wide range of public and private events. For more information, please visit siccsabah.com or follow us on social media – LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Aker Carbon Capture ASA announces that SLB Capturi and Aker Solutions win contract to deliver carbon capture solution for Hafslund Celsio

FORNEBU, Norway, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Aker Carbon Capture (ACC ASA), an Aker Horizons portfolio company, today announced that SLB Capturi, in collaboration with Aker Solutions, has been awarded an engineering, procurement, construction, installation and commissioning (EPCIC) contract from Hafslund Celsio AS to deliver a carbon capture solution at their waste-to-energy facility at Klemetsrud, Oslo.

Hafslund Celsio is Norway’s largest district heating supplier and the owner and operator of Norway’s largest waste-to-energy plant. Hafslund Celsio’s carbon capture project is part of Longship, the Norwegian Government’s full value-chain carbon capture and storage project.

The contract award includes delivery of a carbon capture plant, liquefaction system, temporary storage, and loading facility at the waste incineration site. It also includes an intermediate CO2 storage and ship loading system at Oslo harbor, from where the CO2 will be transported to the Northern Lights permanent storage facility on the Norwegian continental shelf. When operational, which is anticipated by third quarter, 2029, the carbon capture plant is expected to capture 350,000 metric tons of CO2 annually.

The EPCIC award follows a cost reduction phase for Hafslund Celsio’s project, which identified opportunities for efficiencies, including layout optimization. Innovative capture technology design enables the project to move forward. The project will now be delivered based on SLB Capturi’s modularized Just Catch 400 unit. The space-efficient Just Catch design has been fundamental to enabling a viable, cost-effective solution by reducing onsite footprint, installation, and outfitting work.

For further information, please contact:
Jonas Gamre, Investor Relations, Tel: +47 97 11 82 92, jonas.gamre@akerhorizons.com
Mats Ektvedt, Media, Tel: +47 41 42 33 28, mats.ektvedt@corporatecommunications.no

About Aker Horizons:

Aker Horizons develops green energy and green industry to accelerate the transition to Net Zero. The company is active in renewable energy, carbon capture and sustainable industrial assets. As part of the Aker group, Aker Horizons applies industrial, technological and capital markets expertise with a planet-positive purpose to drive decarbonization globally. Aker Horizons is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange and headquartered in Fornebu, Norway. Across its portfolio, the company is present on five continents.
www.akerhorizons.com

About Aker Carbon Capture

Aker Carbon Capture ASA was established as a separate entity in 2020, building on more than 20 years long experience and maturation of the carbon capture technology within Aker. Following an agreement with SLB, a joint venture between SLB and Aker Carbon Capture was established in June 2024. The JV, SLB Capturi, is headquartered in Oslo, with SLB owning 80% and Aker Carbon Capture ASA owning 20%, two strong companies with proven track record of building successful industrial businesses positioned for substantial growth.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/aker-horizons/r/aker-carbon-capture-asa-announces-that-slb-capturi-and-aker-solutions-win-contract-to-deliver-carbon,c4096026

Trip.com Group champions further recovery and long-term growth for ASEAN tourism

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Trip.com Group, a leading global travel services provider, has reinforced its commitment to supporting the full recovery and continued growth of Southeast Asia’s travel and tourism industry. CEO Jane Sun participated in discussions with key government and business leaders at the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting, including ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Thailand’s Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra.

Ms Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group (left), and Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, discuss partnerships to advance local and regional goals.
Ms Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group (left), and Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, discuss partnerships to advance local and regional goals.

During her meeting with Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Ms Sun pointed to robust growth potential in the regional travel market and shared Trip.com Group’s strategic vision for positioning Southeast Asia as a top travel destination in 2025 and beyond.

ASEAN is leading the way in driving new growth against the backdrop of a near-full recovery for global tourism, reporting a total of over 123 million visitors to the region in 2024, an increase of 30.6% on 2023 volumes, according to the Joint Media Statement of the 28th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers issued on 19 January 2025. The sector now sets its sights on renewal, with plans to accelerate the completion of the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan 2016-2025 and to develop the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan 2026-2030, with a focus on sustainability and resilience. These transformations will be key to realising the additional USD 300 billion in annual economic value and over 14 million new jobs that the sector is expected to create within the next decade, accounting for 11.7% of regional GDP and 56.55 million jobs by 2034, according to World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projections.

Ms Sun and Dr Kao explored possibilities for greater alignment between businesses like Trip.com Group and local and regional governments in advancing shared priorities. Dr Kao also shared with Ms Sun the ongoing travel-related developments in the region, including airport projects and infrastructure upgrades. Central to discussions were strategies to close the gap in post-pandemic recovery and enable further benefits to local communities.

Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, said, “ASEAN is positioning itself as a premier quality tourism destination – one that not only fosters economic growth and job creation but also strengthens cross-cultural connections. We look forward to working with Trip.com in advancing this goal.”

“It was an honour to meet with Dr Kao Kim Hourn at the World Economic Forum and align our efforts with ASEAN’s forward-looking vision for the regional travel industry,” said Ms Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group.

“With the anticipated increase in flight capacity and the expansion of visa-free policies, we expect travel demand to remain strong. We are committed to showcasing the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Southeast Asia to the world while empowering local communities and driving growth in ASEAN’s tourism industry.”

Over the past year, regional partnerships, investments, and innovations have created new opportunities for connecting Trip.com Group’s 400 million users with Southeast Asia. Initiatives include the Trip.Best Global and Asia 100 rankings, featuring some of the best hotel, nightlife and gourmet experiences that the region has to offer.

These new offerings engage travellers in targeted and personalised ways. This also presents opportunities for tapping into emerging trends to drive growth. For example, with the increasing interest in entertainment travel, artists touring in Southeast Asia – such as Mandopop star Jay Chou and K-pop group Stray Kids – drove a surge in bookings on Trip.com Group’s newly launched “Events & Shows” channel in 2024.

These initiatives have helped to boost tourism in the region. In 2024, visitors from Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines led intra-regional travel on Trip.com Group platforms, while China and Korea were some of the top source markets outside the region. For the upcoming Chinese New Year, Trip.com Group projects further increase in intra-regional and inbound travel volume in Southeast Asia for the upcoming Chinese New Year – with Universal Studios Singapore and the Kuala Lumpur Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour among the most sought-after experiences.

With new opportunities on the horizon for Southeast Asian tourism, Trip.com Group looks forward to continuing to innovate and collaborate with local and regional partners to inspire travellers and support the region’s long-term growth and prosperity.

About Trip.com Group

Trip.com Group is a leading global travel service provider comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. Across its platforms, Trip.com Group helps travellers around the world make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services and enables partners to connect their offerings with users through the aggregation of comprehensive travel-related content and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of apps, websites and 24/7 customer service centres. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, Trip.com Group has become one of the best-known travel groups in the world, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world”. Find out more about Trip.com Group here: group.trip.com.

Chinese Men from Laos Rescued in Thailand After Ransom Kidnap

Chinese Men from Laos Rescued in Thailand After Ransom Kidnap
Police observing the arrested kidnappers (photo credit: Thairath)

Seven Chinese men were lured from Laos to Chanuman district, Amnat Charoen, Thailand, with false promises of high-paying jobs before being rescued by Thai authorities.