Three GSTC Online trainings were sponsored by The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts of Sarawak (MTCP) in collaboration with Business Events Sarawak for their stakeholders related to Sarawak tourism – government, industry (event management, business travel, hotel, tour operator, association and academia). Trainings were held between November and December 2023, with an overall total of 129 participants successfully attended these training sessions, in a virtual setting. These sessions were led by esteemed GSTC Trainers CB Ramkumar, GSTC Vice Chair, Kingston Khoo, President of Eco-STEPS Malaysia, Horst Bayer, Principal of TravelHorst Academy, and Bernard Harrop, Managing Director of IG Management.
“Positive intent and passion usually go hand in hand, and that is what we saw during the trainings. The positive intent of the Ministry Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts of Sarawak was matched by the passion of all the stakeholders who participated. They were very enthusiastic in their participation, demonstrated their curiosity with lots of questions and discussions, and seemed equipped to take the Sustainable Tourism journey for Sarawak. My best wishes to all the stakeholders” said CB Ramkumar, Vice Chair of GSTC.
“The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak recognized the strategic importance of investing in sustainable tourism training, exemplified by the GSTC program. This initiative resonates with the vision outlined in Post COVID Development Sarawak 2030 and underscores the Sarawak Government’s steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship. Empowering the aspirants not only fosters a culture of sustainability but also primes the groundwork for exponential progress. Remember, the small steps today pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous tomorrow,” said Datu Sherrina Binti Hussaini, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak.
The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course equipped participants with indispensable knowledge and skills essential for advocating sustainable tourism practices. It served as an immersive experience, allowing attendees to explore the GSTC Criteria, which are recognized globally as the standards for sustainability in tourism and travel.
Furthermore, the Sustainable Hospitality Course self-paced, provided invaluable insights into implementing sustainability practices tailored for hotels, while the Sustainable Business Travel Course focused on strategies for integrating sustainability into business and corporate travel.
Upon successful course completion, participants receive a certificate of completion and become eligible to take an optional official exam to obtain the GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism.
If you are interested in contributing to the industry’s sustainable transformation, consider checking out GSTC’s upcoming courses here.