Nigel Wong

Trained initially as a software engineer, Nigel Wong developed expertise in business systems development, software methodologies, and network security. His journey into the travel industry began in Australia, where he created one of the country's most popular online adventure travel portals promoting self-drive and outback experiences.

In 2009, he returned to Kuala Lumpur and established Urban Rhythms Tours Adventures & Travel Sdn Bhd, focusing on promoting eco-tourism and adventure travel in the digital space. The company also specialized in building custom travelfocused web applications, bridging the gap between technology and tourism.

Nigel has served on the Executive Council of MATTA since 2013 in the capacities of :

• Vice President, Research & Technology

• Honorary Secretary General for six (6) years

• Honorary Treasurer for two (2) years

• Currently serving as President

As President, Nigel has championed sustainability, digital innovation, and regional cooperation as the pillars of MATTA’s future direction.

He launched the MATTA Eco & Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI), MATTA’s commitment to a cleaner, kinder, and more conscious way of exploring Malaysia. Built on three core pillars: wildlife conservation, marine conservation, and cultural and historic preservation. MESTI empowers both the travel industry and travellers to protect what makes Malaysia truly unique.

Through MESTI, MATTA is:

• Rolling out dedicated awareness, training, and capacity-building programmes for its members.

• Supporting efforts to safeguard endangered species, preserve marine ecosystems, and honour Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage.

• Aligning with globally recognised sustainability benchmarks as a proud member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)

Nigel’s strategic focus is on integrating responsible practices across all levels of tourism, from promoting eco-friendly travel options to collaborating with stakeholders to reduce the carbon footprint of tourism activities.

His goal is to position Malaysia as a global leader in sustainable tourism, ensuring the industry contributes positively to the environment and local communities for generations to come.

Regionally, Nigel also serves as the Secretary General of the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) since 2019. In this role he:

• Pioneered the Travel Safe Alliance, enhancing regional collaboration on health and safety protocols.

• Spearheaded the development of the ASEAN Vaccine Passport Protocol, leveraging blockchain technology for secure and seamless travel across ASEAN.

Nigel Wong remains a firm believer that tourism must evolve to support long-term environmental stewardship, digital empowerment, and shared prosperity for all stakeholders, from travel agents to local communities

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