SIBU: Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) upcoming prestigious award ceremony, the 9th Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards (SHTA) will be held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre at Jalan Haji Taha here on Sept 27.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Tun Openg is expected to officiater at the awards ceremony.
Yesterday, the STF held its 9th Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards – Engagement Session at RH hotel here.
Representatives from various public and private sectors participated in the session conducted by STF president, Audry Wan Ulok and the event’s organising chairman, JC Chua.
“The 9th SHTA aims to honour five years (2019 – 2023) of remarkable achievements, with this year’s theme being “Wind of Resilience”, symbolising the strength and adaptability demonstrated by individuals and organisation in the face of challenges through the turbulent winds of the global pandemic.
She elaborated that this year’s award will feature eight Main Awards categories, namely: Best Tour Operator Tours and Tourist Guide; Best Accommodation; Best Dining, Retail and Recreational Experiences; Best Special Interest Tourism; Best Attractions Experiences; Best Promotion and Social Media Contribution to the Tourism Industry; Best Tourism Events and Festivals Experiences; and Special Hornbill Awards with 27 sub-categories.
“Among these categories, the 9th SHTA will feature several new categories to better reflect our commitment in recognising and celebrating excellence across all aspects of the tourism industry.
“Examples of the new categories include Spa and Wellness, Education and Medical Tourism, Sarawak Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H), as well as featuring Best Community Best Tourism Initiative and Special Award for Responsible Tourism,” she said.
Audry announced that a distinguished panel of 46 judges, comprising members from both public and private sectors, will be presiding over the adjudication process for the awards.
These esteemed judges, she said, have already conducted an insightful workshop on March 18, in preparation for the evaluation process task for the awards.
She stated that the recipients of the awards will be rewarded with not only monetary prizes but also prestigious trophies, certificate and extensive media coverage to honour their outstanding achievements.
“As of today, we have received a total of 11 submissions for the awards. All categories of 9th SHTA are open for nomination, either by self-nomination or by any members of the tourism industry, except for Special Hornbill Awards Life Time Achievement and Special Hornbill Awards – Special Recognition Award (Covid Era).
“Nominations can be submitted online through our official website (shta.com.my) or mailed to Sarawak Tourism Federation office before the closing of nomination date on April 30.
“Nominate now and be a part of celebrating excellence. Don’t miss this opportunity to shine a spotlight on deserving candidates who have made significant contributions in their respective fields,” Audry added.
STF will conduct similiar engagement sessions at Fairfield by Marriott Bintulu, Paragon today (April 4) and at Pullman Hotel, Miri on April 5.
