Association focuses on improving Madang tourism

MADANG’S tourism industry has been boosted with the establishment of an association that will oversee tourism development in the province.
The Madang Tourist Industry Association (MTIA) was launched last week with a new logo depicting the traditional balangat canoe, which was used by locals in the past.
The establishment of the association will enable tourism operators to work in partnership with the Government and other provinces to develop a socially responsible industry for the locals and international visitors once travel restrictions are lifted.
Former prime minister Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare spoke on the once well-known reputation of Madang as a tourist attraction.
“Madang, for many years, was a role model in tourism development in PNG, sadly, the model has eroded due to a number of factors that are uncontrollable, others controllable such as ensuring the public and private sector work together to restore the image of beautiful Madang,” he said.
Madang Resort owner Sir Peter Barter said Madang was once the envy of other provinces.
“The industry will work together to restore the image of Madang which not only will provide jobs, business opportunities and retain the culture but help improve our image to attract good investors,” he said.