On 12th November 2024, Dr. Jeetesh Kumar, Head of Research at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University and Hub Leader of the Sustainable Tourism Impact Lab, represented the university at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) held at Baku Stadium, Azerbaijan. Participating virtually from Malaysia's Pavilion, themed "Shift for Sustainability: Climate Action Now – Future-Proofing Our Environment," Dr. Jeetesh emphasized the vital role of community involvement and stakeholder collaboration in advancing sustainable tourism and climate governance.
He highlighted how engaging local communities, governments, businesses, and tourists fosters resilience and sustainability. Stressing that sustainable tourism extends beyond eco-friendly practices, Dr. Jeetesh advocated for empowering communities, enhancing the quality of life, and preserving cultural heritage. He showcased community-based tourism initiatives, such as homestay programs, which offer authentic traveler experiences, strengthen local economies, and promote environmental stewardship.
Dr. Jeetesh also underscored the significance of policy support, cross-sector collaboration, and green innovations, ranging from energy-efficient practices to sustainable infrastructure, in aligning tourism with climate goals. These strategies, he argued, not only attract eco-conscious travelers but also reduce tourism’s ecological footprint.
Joining him on the panel were Ms. Rahimah Farjan Ali, Head of Group Sustainability for Malaysia Aviation Group, and Mr. Frank Radstake, Director of the Dutch Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators, with moderation by Mr. Nigel Wong, President of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA). Together, they explored how tourism could be transformed into a force for positive environmental and social change.
Dr. Jeetesh’s insights aligned with COP29’s mission to accelerate global climate action, highlighting sustainable tourism as a critical tool for building resilient communities and supporting the 1.5°C global warming limit. His emphasis on community empowerment and innovation reinforced the importance of cross-sector collaboration in creating a sustainable future.