SINGAPORE - Travel agency Ho Wah Travel no longer holds a valid travel agent licence as of Aug 6.

In a statement on Thursday, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said it revoked the license as the agency has ceased its business as a travel agent and started the process of winding up. This was in accordance with the Travel Agents Act.

Affected consumers should first try to contact Ho Wah Travel about any bookings or refunds, said STB. If the agency cannot be contacted, or fails to deliver the service or refund, consumers covered by travel insurance should approach their insurance provider for assistance, the board added. The rest can seek the help of the Consumers Association of Singapore or the Small Claims Tribunal.

"The STB adopts a serious view against errant travel agents and will not hesitate to take necessary actions to protect consumers' interests and safeguard the reputation of Singapore's tourism sector," STB added.

The board also reminded consumers to take measures to protect themselves, such as paying by instalments if they made travel bookings in advance. They should also purchase travel insurance that includes travel agent insolvency upon any payment.