Sarawak Embraces AI to Empower Tourism SMEs: PATA and STB Launch Innovative Training Program
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in collaboration with the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), is set to launch a revolutionary AI-focused training program designed to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within Sarawak’s vibrant tourism industry. This initiative, aptly named “AI-Driven Transformation: Empowering Sarawak’s Tourism SMEs,” will take place in Kuching from October 29 to November 1, 2024.
PATA’s Chief Executive Officer, Noor Ahmad Hamid, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that it will provide practical training to equip Sarawak’s tourism businesses with the power of artificial intelligence. This will enable them to enhance their capabilities, drive innovation, boost competitiveness, and promote sustainability within the global tourism market.
The program will empower businesses with AI tools that can streamline operations, analyze data, and deliver highly personalized customer experiences, ultimately creating a more engaging and memorable journey for tourists. Recognizing that while AI holds immense potential, many SMEs require targeted training to bridge the gap between understanding AI concepts and applying them in real-world scenarios, Noor Ahmad emphasized the program’s crucial role in equipping businesses with the necessary skills.
This initiative aligns perfectly with PATA’s overarching Strategy 2030, which prioritizes digital transformation and sustainable development within the tourism sector. STB Chairman, Datuk Dennis Ngau, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the crucial role of technological adoption in maintaining Sarawak’s tourism industry’s competitiveness.
“By offering accessible AI training, we aim to ensure Sarawak’s tourism SMEs remain relevant and appealing to the increasingly tech-savvy global market,” said Dennis.
The AI training program reflects Sarawak’s commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape while simultaneously promoting sustainable and innovative tourism practices. This forward-thinking initiative demonstrates Sarawak’s dedication to equipping its tourism SMEs with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the digital age and contribute to a more sustainable and innovative tourism industry.