Hadi Tjahjono: "Dialogue among World Famous Mountains" has paved the way for establishing enhanced RCEP Framework and launching comprehensive strategies
Editor's note: On September 15, The "International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) Annual Conference and Dialogue among World Famous Mountains 2023" opened in Xingyi City, Guizhou Province. Gathering over 200 participants, including IMTA members, renowned international organizations, relevant national cultural and tourism departments, leaders and officials from Guizhou Province, professional tourism organizations and enterprises, world-famous mountain and mountain tourism destination institutions, media and other esteemed guests. The Conference was themed with "Mountain Tourism Resource Innovation and Destination Construction." Simultaneously, the Dialogue among World Famous Mountains explored the theme "World Famous Mountains Empower the Wellness of Mountain Tourism." Discussions revolved around cutting-edge strategies for mountain resource protection, innovative utilization, and development, fostering an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere.
At the "Dialogue among World Famous Mountains 2023", Hadi Tjahjono, Director of Education, Culture and Tourism Division of ASEAN-China Center (ACC), delivered a speech on the topic of “World Famous Mountains Empower the Wellness of Mountain Tourism.”
The following is the full text of the speech:
On behalf of the ASEAN-China Centre in Beijing, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the organizing committee for inviting me to present here in this forum. I believe this dialog serves as an effective way to enhance the cooperation among us, in building sustainable tourism destination.
China and the ASEAN region are home to numerous magnificent and breathtaking mountain ranges that have uniquely shaped our planet’s landscapes. From the sacred peaks of Mount Fanjing in Guizhou Province, to the highly revered Tianmen Mountain, often referred to as the “Gateway to Heaven” in Hunan Province, China solidifies itself as a testament to the majestic beauty and wonder that nature has to offer.
Mount Fanjing, Guizhou
Equally, China’s neighboring ASEAN states are also blessed with some of nature’s finest geographical marvels. The mist-covered summits of Northern Vietnam’s Sa Pa; the vast and daunting Barisan Mountains that spine along the western edge of Sumatra Island in Indonesia; and Mount Kinabalu in East Malaysia on the island of Borneo, mightily piercing the skies considered as the highest peak in all of Southeast Asia, are only few of the many awe-inspiring mountains in the ASEAN region that challenge us to embark on a thrilling adventure and connect with nature and honor the lands that our ancestors before us have graced.
In this regard, this dialog serves as a significant avenue for raising public awareness about actively taking part in the protection and preservation of mountain resources, and the development and promotion of mountain tourism across China, Southeast Asia, and the world at large.
Scene of the IMTA Annual Conference 2023
This annual conference has paved the way for establishing an enhanced framework and launching comprehensive strategies for the industry that benefit both local communities and global travelers alike. The informative discussions and thought-provoking open dialogues that will be presented by our respected guests at the event aim to impart us valuable knowledge on sustainable practices in the mountain tourism industry as well as essential approaches on fostering a positive environment of mutual understanding and shared responsibility.
Scene of the IMTA Annual Conference 2023
As we set out to unravel the intricacies of mountain tourism, let us seize the opportunity to broaden our perspectives while drawing inspiration from the unique landscapes and diverse cultures that reflect our distinct human experiences and stories.
As someone who was born and raised on the beautiful island of Java, Indonesia, where stunning and imposing panoramas of our mountain scapes stretch into the distance, I deeply resonate with the goals and principles upheld by this conference on further advancing and promoting mountain tourism across the region. In recent years, mountain tourism activities have been gaining popularity on the island which boosts significant economic gains. However, this also comes with various challenges that threaten the rich biodiversity and wildlife.
Mount Bromo, Indonesia
For this reason, it is imperative for us to be equipped with proper mountain tourism practices such as promoting sustainable methods, encouraging local and international exchanges, and pushing for environmentally responsible business cooperation to safeguard the natural and cultural heritage of our mountains.
To conclude, let this momentous event be a clear demonstration of our passion and commitment towards achieving our goal of a more innovative and flourishing mountain tourism for future generations to enjoy, cherish, and develop a profound appreciation of the marvels of nature that continue to enrich our lives in so many ways.
I fervently hope that the insight and perspectives shared at this forum contribute to strengthen ASEAN-China cooperation in the field of sustainable mountain tourism, boost people-to-people exchanges and paving the way for a brighter future for live of the people in the region and people of the world.
Text and images source: IMTA
Editor Ⅲ: Liu Guosong
Editor Ⅱ: Wu Dan
Editor Ⅰ: Rao Juan
