Tourism in PNG stagnant, Madang has not improved: Sir Peter

THE tourism industry is yet to pick up, Melanesian Tourist Services Ltd managing director Sir Peter Barter says.
He said the Madang Resort had not picked up business despite offering discounts.
“The situation has not improved in Madang,” he said. “The 50 per cent discount has been withdrawn and we are now offering 30 per cent on stays of more than three nights.
“Apart from the Covid-19 restrictions, the airport remains partially closed to Dash-7 aircraft with limited capacity.
“This is a deterrent itself to attracting conferences, resident tourism which was enjoyed in 2020.”
He said Air Niugini was promoting other destinations in PNG with special deals.
“But Madang has been excluded due to the airport closure,” Sir Peter said. “The only hope in the future is for mass vaccination along with the prevention and awareness.”
The Melanesian Foundation assisted by Ok Tedi Mining Ltd, Kumul Petroleum, and the Australian government has produced a booklet now being distributed throughout Papua New Guinea answering the many questions commonly asked about the virus and vaccination.
“We encourage leaders to read this book to dispel the false information being spread on social media.”