Goa to highlight new age tourism trends in Malaysia, Qatar and Bahrain to attract

The Goa government will host a promotional roadshow in Malaysia on November 27 as part of its efforts to draw more visitors from Southeast Asia by presenting the state's evolving and distinctive tourism experiences. Apart from Malaysia, the state's tourism department is holding events in Qatar and Bahrain to attract tourists from the Middle East.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said on November 21 that the “exclusive” showcase will introduce Goa's renewed tourism vision, updated campaigns and a wide range of experiential offerings aimed at international audiences. “This engagement aims to strengthen Goa's presence in the Southeast Asian market and build meaningful partnerships with key travel trade stakeholders,” he said.

Khaunte added that the state is working to position itself as a premium global destination by adopting new ideas and sustainable practices. “Through this roadshow in Malaysia, we aim to present a refreshed version of Goa, one that celebrates our culture, amplifies new-age tourism trends, and aligns with our commitment to regenerative and responsible tourism,” he said.

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Tourism Director Kedar Naik highlighted Malaysia as an important source market, noting that the event provides an opportunity to introduce Goa’s forward-looking initiatives. “We are focusing on diversified offerings, from entertainment to wellness, luxury, and experiential travel. Our new trends, Nocto Tourism, Jet-Setting, and CalmCation, represent the evolving aspirations of modern travellers and the direction in which Goa's tourism ecosystem is progressing,” he said.

Naik added that the roadshow will also feature the state’s recently launched Feels Like Goa campaign, an immersive narrative designed to redefine the essence of Goa by shining a light on culture, heritage, wellness, cuisine and its regenerative tourism approach.

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Meanwhile, Goa's two-decade-long association with the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has helped transform the coastal state into a vibrant hub for cinematic exchange, serving as a major platform for national and homegrown filmmakers.

Speaking at the inauguration of the festival's 56th edition on Thursday, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said IFFI has grown alongside Goa since it first travelled to the state in 2004.

IFFI, which was held in various parts of the country since its inception in 1952, was brought to Goa under the leadership of then chief minister Manohar Parrikar. The state became the permanent venue for the festival in 2014.

Sharmad Pai Raiturkar, member of the executive council and general body of the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), recalled Parrikar’s efforts in bringing IFFI to the state and establishing it as a regular feature on the country’s cultural calendar.

“IFFI is not just about the films but it provides the platform to showcase one’s language, culture and even cuisine. Goa has been able to showcase its uniqueness through this festival to the world,” he said.

(With inputs from PTI)