the much awaited Indonesia Night, hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Indonesia, at the beautiful Sofitel Phnom Penh at Phokeethra. The evening was a delightful cultural experience that gave the almost 2000 ATF 2011 delegates a sneak peek into magnificent Manado, the venue for ATF 2012. 

Highlights of the night included the handing over of the ATF flag and plaque. Amidst traditional performances was the ceremonial passing of the mantle of Host Committee from His Excellency Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism, Cambodia to His Excellency Jero Wacik, Minister of Culture and Tourism, Indonesia. Mr. Wacik then warmly welcomed all TRAVEX delegates to experience the hospitality and warmth of Indonesia in 2012. 

The national motto of Indonesia, “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” literally means, ‘Many, yet One’. This motto perfectly epitomizes the spirit of ASEAN Tourism Forum 2012. The theme for ATF 2012 is ‘ASEAN Tourism for a Global Community of Nations.’ Mirroring Indonesia as a community of islands that forms a single beautiful nation, the theme reflects that ASEAN is also a single multifaceted destination for the global community of travellers. 

Indonesia has been celebrated for its beautiful beaches in Bali, exciting nightlife in Jakarta and the cultural heritage sites of Sumatra. Now, at ATF 2012, Indonesia is keen to introduce to the world, the many delights of Manado. 

In a statement to the TRAVEX Secretariat, His Excellency Jero Wacik remarked, “Manado is famous as a diver’s paradise, but also offers wonderful hospitality infrastructure, and diverse and stunning landscapes. The people of Manado and the rest of Indonesia are all keen to give you a taste of the famed Indonesian hospitality during ATF 2012.” Indonesia has also gained respect for its many initiatives to promote Eco Tourism and Sustainable Development, while also protecting and developing the local communities. 

Delegates are already expressing interest and excitement to be part of ATF 2012.

“Everything was smooth in ATF 2011, and I’m looking forward to ATF 2012, in Manado, Indonesia” remarked   Mr. Risto Honakanen, the General Manager of Best Western Phanganburi Resort.

Mr. Tran Vinh Loc. Jonathan, the Executive Director of Lac Hong Voyager Co. Ltd. agreed; “ATF is a good venue to source for new products and contacts, and most importantly, for networking; I am now looking forward to seeing them all in ATF 2012 in Manado, Indonesia.” 

Editor Ted Davis of Canadian Travel Press is excited about destination Manado and said, “Indonesia is a big country, and it is an opportunity for her to showcase Manado and its rich culture, new sights and natural attractions....I’m sure it will draw many delegates to attend ATF 2012 in Manado, Indonesia.” 

For more details on Indonesia Night and other activities taking place at ATF 2011, visit www.atfcambodia.com.

Online registration for Exhibitors, Buyers and Media for ATF 2012 at Manado, Indonesia is already open at www.atfindonesia.com. Event details are also available at the website.