MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Celebrating its 10th anniversary, experiences and travel services platform Klook is leveraging its scale to introduce a range of initiatives to drive positive impact, fostering sustainable tourism and supporting local communities.
An independent study by Oxford Economics, a world-leading economic analysis and forecasting firm, reflects the significant impact of the company’s operations beyond the platform itself. In 2023, Klook’s services contributed approximately $7.2 billion in GDP and supported over 219,000 jobs in Asia Pacific, reaffirming its pivotal role as an economic engine in the region’s tourism sector.
By connecting partners with customers who may have been otherwise inaccessible, Klook creates a ripple of economic activity across multiple sectors within the travel industry, from experiences, entertainment to transportation, and more.
“Our first ten years have focused on building a global platform that not only enables unforgettable experiences but also supports the local communities we work with,” said Ethan Lin, CEO and Co-Founder of Klook. “With over 80% of our partners being small and medium businesses, we are committed to creating real economic opportunities for these communities, which are the backbone of local tourism, to ensure a more resilient and sustainable future for tourism in Asia.”
Championing responsible travel
Building on its success, Klook is leveraging its scale to make a lasting positive impact on the environment and local communities, including those in the Philippines. As a newly inducted member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Klook will be promoting sustainable practices across the experience sector.
“As we celebrate 10 years, our commitment to making travel a force for good is stronger than ever,” said Eric Gnock Fah, President and Co-Founder of Klook. “We are introducing new initiatives that can shape a more inclusive, responsible, and sustainable future for tourism. Looking ahead, our focus is on fostering deeper connections between travelers and local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and empowering the many people whose livelihoods depend on tourism.”
These new initiatives include adopting a new standard for eco-friendly travel by partnering with businesses that prioritize sustainable practices, a program to improve animal welfare at elephant sanctuaries, and thousands of complimentary local tours led by experts to spotlight cultural heritage and support small businesses in the tourism ecosystem.
With over 200 certified sustainable activities across the globe, travelers will have more opportunities and options to make eco-conscious choices across various destinations. These activities adhere to internationally recognized sustainability standards and will empower travelers to make choices that align with their values, fostering a future where exploration and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. In the Philippines, a good number of PADI X Klook partnership activities have been certified under this sustainability initiative – these activities range from beginner-level experience to challenging activities for pros.
“The Philippine market, abounding with natural resources that need to be protected, is certainly aligned with Klook’s prioritization for sustainability,” Michelle Ho, General Manager of Klook Philippines and Thailand stated. “Amidst plans to expand our sustainable offerings in the Philippines, we are proud to say that our listings in partnership with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) in the Philippines play a big role in Klook’s mission to further the education and welfare of the country’s natural treasures underwater,” she concluded.
Further strengthening its commitment to responsible tourism, Klook is taking a firm stance on animal welfare, introducing a set of criteria for experiences involving elephants. The assessment was developed in consultation with Asian Captive Elephant Standards (ACES), experts in the field of captive elephant welfare. Klook’s efforts extend beyond accreditation, actively working with local partners to elevate standards of care and support for both the animals and the communities they operate within. At launch, 12 elephant sanctuaries are already part of the new ‘Klook Assessed’ program, with more expected to join.
In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Klook is giving back to the communities that have been at the heart of its success by offering thousands of complimentary local tours. These experiences, led by local experts, provide travelers with an authentic lens into the rich cultural heritage of each destination, from bustling markets in Seoul to the culinary traditions of Chiang Mai, and foster a more inclusive and meaningful travel experience. By spotlighting these activities on the platform, Klook is helping local partners expand their reach, driving growth for small businesses within the tourism ecosystem.
