In addition, Lee stressed talent, saying workers in ASEAN countries need to develop specific skills to deliver the high standards for international tourists.

In his opening speech, Lee also told the forum the spirit of regional cooperation is "all the more" important in these uncertain times.

"In this uncertain global environment, ASEAN is an important life raft for all of us," said Lee. "While ASEAN has made significant progress, there is a lot more work to be done."

Themed on "Shaping our Tourism Journey Together", the five-day tourism forum involves ASEAN National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) Meetings, ASEAN Tourism Ministers' Meeting, ASEAN Tourism Conference as well as exhibitions on tourism etc.

Established in 1981, the annual ASEAN Tourism Forum is a useful platform for the region's tourism ministers, government officials and travel industry players to come together and discuss ways to further stimulate tourism growth.