Singapore agency penalised by STB

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has suspended the licence of another registered travel agency.

Mesa Travels Pte. Ltd had its licence temporarily suspended under the Travel Agents Act 1975.

The STB says the suspension relates to Mesa Travels’ late submission of audited accounts and the Annual Business Profile Returns.

It was earlier issued a financial penalty which it hasn’t paid, leading to the suspension.

STB licensees have to submit their audited within six months after the financial year ends.

The suspension will continue until Mesa Travels settles the outstanding penalty, the STB says.

The company’s licence is due to expire later this year.

Throughout the suspension, Mesa Travels must honour all existing customer bookings but cannot take on new travel bookings while suspended.

“STB takes a serious view against errant travel agents and will not hesitate to take necessary actions to protect the reputation of Singapore’s travel industry,” the Singapore Tourism Board said.