In a statement today, Matta said Wong had previously served as vice-president (research and technology), honorary secretary-general and, more recently, honorary treasurer.

Tan hoped Wong will be able to resolve crucial tourism issues that have been long-standing problems for the industry.

“Despite the efforts of Matta’s past presidents and the many tourism ministers that have come and gone, many of these longstanding issues remain embedded in government bureaucracy,” he said.

Wong thanked association members for their support and promised to look into improving business prospects at large.

“We will continue to build and expand on these foundations, and develop new initiatives and programmes focusing on growth and sustainability to help our members remain competitive in a volatile and ever-changing tourism landscape,” he said.