The development of regional tourism in Southeast Asia through cooperation is advocated not only due to
that fact of achieving self-sufficiency but also to advance exchange of ideas and international trade within
this region that could be implemented by constituting a unique tourism organization. Unlike other
economic sectors, Southeast Asian tourism industry experiences a significant lack of tourism experts.
Therefore, it is proposed that a Southeast Asian Tourism Experts Association (STEA) need to be formed.
It would operate as a “think tank organization”- being the centre-portal for experts of various skills
mandatory for regional tourism development to work closely with each other for achieving greater economic benefit. Along with other activities, research programmes and consultancies would be a part of
its activities.