PATA paid recognition to three tourism professionals and industry leaders, whose work has contributed to the overall development of Asia Pacific tourism and beyond, at the recent PATA Annual Summit 2024.
The PATA Life Membership was presented to Darren Ng, managing director, TTG Asia Media. As PATA’s highest individual honour, the award serves to recognise individuals for their leadership and dedication to the association.
Ng served as the chairman of the PATA Singapore Chapter from 2008 to 2016 and is currently an advisor to the chapter. He has also been a council and advisory member of PATA, serving as an Industry council member, proxy member, and board member between 1990 and 2023. Currently, he holds a position on the Supervisory Board of PATA.
The PATA Award of Merit was presented to Elizabeth M Chin, executive director, PATA New York Chapter. This award is reserved for individuals who have consistently contributed to PATA and the PATA chapter network over an extended period of time.
Chin has played a pivotal role in the success of the PATA New York Chapter and supported numerous workings of the association as a whole. She began her professional journey as a corporate auditor, followed by over 25 years of diverse experiences across various industries, ranging from food service to entertainment. In 1986, Chin founded and has since served as the owner of ECI Travel World, providing travel experiences tailored to exploring destinations worldwide.
Mayur Patel, head of Asia, OAG, was presented with the PATA Chairman’s Award, reserved for individuals who have shown support, loyalty and dedication to the association and industry during their tenure.
Prior to joining OAG, Patel was with Amadeus. He also spent over seven years at IATA, in a variety of roles focused on aviation data solutions and services.
Meanwhile, PATA has appointed Soon-Hwa Wong, CEO of AsiaChina, its Ambassador for Greater China. He will work towards achieving the goals of PATA, facilitating collaboration among stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry, and enhancing the presence of PATA in Greater China.
PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said: “PATA congratulates all four individuals on this sincere acknowledgement of their passion and leadership in ensuring the responsible development of travel and tourism in Asia Pacific and beyond. With their guidance, the association continues to grow and serve its purpose in supporting the industry. Their tireless efforts should inspire all of us as fellow tourism professionals to fulfil our roles in driving tourism forward.”
