In a remarkable fusion of eco-consciousness and tourism, Agoda, a global digital travel platform, has announced an ambitious expansion of its acclaimed Eco Deals Program at the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF). The latest iteration of this initiative marks a significant upscaling in Agoda’s commitment to environmental stewardship, pledging an impressive USD 1 million to wildlife conservation efforts across Southeast Asia.

This strategic move is crucial when the call for sustainable tourism practices is louder than ever. The ATF, a high-profile event attended by ASEAN tourism ministers and ASEAN’s secretary-general, provided the perfect backdrop for Agoda to reveal its enhanced collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). This partnership exemplifies a harmonious private-public synergy, resonating with the ATF’s theme: “Quality and responsible tourism – Sustaining ASEAN Future”.

Agoda’s CEO, Omri Morgenshtern, alongside Elizabeth Clarke, WWF-Singapore’s Director of Conservation, unveiled the program’s ambitious goals. This year’s Eco Deals Program, now in its third edition, will significantly increase Agoda’s donation to WWF-Singapore, supporting local conservation efforts in eight countries: Lao PDR, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The program’s design is as innovative as its objectives. For every hotel booking made through Agoda’s participating hotels, USD $1 will be allocated to the Eco Deals Program. This unique approach not only garners funds for conservation but also encourages hoteliers and travellers alike to be part of a more significant cause.

Enric Casals, Agoda’s Regional Vice President for Southeast Asia, emphasized the importance of such cause-related initiatives. He highlighted the easy integration for hotel partners to contribute to impactful conservation projects, benefiting both the environment and the communities they serve.

(left to right): Dr Kanchana Wanichkorn, Director of Sectoral Development, ASEAN Secretariat; Ms Juliana Kwa, Assistant Chief Executive, Singapore Tourism Board; Dr Nguyen Trung Khanh, Chairman of Vietnam National Authority of Tourism; Dato’ Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, Secretary-General of Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Malaysia; H.E. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Minister of Tourism and Sports, Thailand; Mr Omri Morgenshtern, CEO of Agoda; H.E. Suanesavanh Vignaket, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Lao PDR; H.E. So Mara, Secretary of State, Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia; Mrs. Martini Paham, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Indonesia; Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Brunei Darussalam; Ms. Verna Buensuceso, Undersecretary of Department of Tourism, the Philippines.

This year, the program is scaling to new heights, not just in funding but in its scope of projects. These include the protection of Tigers in Malaysia, Whale Sharks in the Philippines, Elephants in Thailand, and several other critical conservation efforts across the region. The initiative extends to ecosystem restoration, ranger support, and urban wetland improvements, showcasing a holistic approach to environmental preservation.

The Eco Deals Program, set to launch on 3 March 2024 and run until 3 December 2024, also offers tangible benefits to participating accommodation partners. These include discounted rates of up to 15% and enhanced visibility through Agoda’s multiple marketing channels. This strategic positioning drives additional bookings and elevates partners’ visibility aligned with this noble cause.

At the ATF, Omri Morgenshtern, Chief Executive Officer of Agoda, emphasized the company’s ethos of making travel accessible while being mindful of its environmental footprint. “Our partnership with WWF and the collaborative support from our hotel partners reflect our commitment to safeguarding the world for future generations to explore and cherish,” Morgenshtern said.

The Chair of the ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting, H.E. Minister Suanesavanh Vignaket, lauded the initiative, inviting public and private sectors to champion sustainable practices aligned with the ASEAN Framework on Sustainable Tourism Development.

WWF-Singapore’s CEO Vivek Kumar highlighted the situation’s urgency, referencing the alarming findings of the WWF’s Living Planet Report. “The impact we’ve achieved in the past two years is just the beginning. With Agoda, we’re set to expand our conservation projects, making a tangible difference in wildlife preservation,” Kumar stated.

The success stories from the previous editions of the Eco Deals Program are a testament to the effectiveness of this collaboration. From training volunteers in Singapore to combat illegal wildlife trade online to extensive patrolling and wildlife monitoring in Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia, the program has made significant conservation strides.

As Agoda and WWF propel into their third year of partnership, this amplified commitment underlines a crucial narrative in today’s world – the inseparable link between sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. This alliance sets a benchmark in the travel industry and is a beacon of hope for worldwide wildlife conservation efforts.

Written by: Michelle Warner

====================================