Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Recovery and Resilience of the Hospitality and Tourism Industry in Southeast Asia

Purpose: The study sought to analyze the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the recovery and resilience of the hospitality and tourism industry. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The COVID-19 pandemic devastated Southeast Asia's hospitality and tourism sector, leading to a sharp decline in tourism, economic hardship, and widespread job losses. Businesses adapted by focusing on domestic travel, implementing health protocols, and embracing digitalization. Resilience and innovation were evident, with businesses diversifying offerings and governments providing financial support. Recovery hinges on rebuilding consumer confidence, stimulating demand, and fostering long-term resilience. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resource-Based View (RBV), Institutional theory & Dynamic capabilities theory may be used to anchor future studies in the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the recovery and resilience of the hospitality and tourism industry. Encourage hospitality and tourism businesses to prioritize resilience-building initiatives as part of their strategic planning processes. Advocate for supportive policy frameworks at the national and international levels that prioritize the recovery and resilience of the hospitality and tourism industry.