TOKYO (April 6, 2025) — Palau earned top recognition at the 33rd Marine Diving Fair (MDF) in Tokyo, securing two first-place awards and reaffirming its global reputation as a premier diving destination.
The event, held April 4–6 at the Sunshine City Convention Center in Ikebukuro, attracted 29,153 visitors. Palau’s delegation, led by the Palau Visitors Authority (PVA), showcased the island nation’s exceptional marine biodiversity, sustainable tourism practices, and rich cultural heritage.
In Marine Diving Web’s 2024 readers’ poll — a prestigious annual vote among more than 1.25 million users — Palau was awarded:
- 1st Place: Best Diving Area
1st Place: First-Time Overseas Dive Area
Palau’s Ambassador to Japan, Peter Adelbai, accepted the Best Diving Area award, while PVA Chairman Jackson Doktok received the honor for First-Time Overseas Dive Area.
“This recognition reflects our community’s ongoing commitment to protecting our environment and offering world-class experiences to divers from around the world,” Doktok said.
The Palau booth drew thousands of diving enthusiasts and travelers, featuring participation from tour operators such as Palau Pacific Resort, Hotel Indigo Palau, Belau Tour, Global Service, Daydream Palau, Aqua Magic, Impac Tours, Sport Tours, Palau Sunrise Sea View Landison Retreat, and Dolphins Pacific.
Representatives from the Koror State Government, including legislators Rodney Omelau and Tangesechel Mariur, joined the delegation alongside PVA staff.
The awards underscore Palau’s position as a leader in marine tourism, known for its pristine waters, iconic dive sites like Blue Corner, and commitment to conservation through initiatives such as the Palau National Marine Sanctuary.
“Preserving our ocean for future generations remains our top priority,” said PVA Managing Director Kadoi Ruluked. “We are proud to share our natural beauty with the world while leading efforts in sustainability.”
The Marine Diving Awards are highly regarded within the international dive community, highlighting destinations based on votes from divers and underwater photographers worldwide.
Pre-Fair Engagements Highlight Long-Stay and Educational Tourism
Ahead of the MDF, the PVA met with Japanese tourism stakeholders from March 28–31 to promote Palau as a long-stay and educational travel destination. Topics included strategies to attract Japanese retirees, visa policies, cultural experiences, and marketing proposals.
On April 2, the PVA met with the Japan School Trip Bureau to explore opportunities for cultural and educational exchanges. Discussions focused on featuring Palau in publications and planning affordable school travel programs.
The same day, PVA representatives held talks with the Japan Tourist Bureau and T.P. Micronesia, Inc., emphasizing efforts to improve air connectivity, foster cultural ties, and promote sustainable tourism and homestay programs.
Palau’s presence at the fair and its recognition through top awards are expected to boost tourism and reinforce its status as a model for marine protection and responsible travel in the Pacific.