Board gets K200,000 to promote tourism

 THE East New Britain administration has presented K200,000 to the provincial tourism board to continue promoting ENB as a model province in tourism development.

Deputy administrator Levi Mano officially launched the PNG Tourism Accommodation Accreditation Scheme yesterday, saying that tourism must be promoted to benefit the province and country. 

“We believe in the people to create and participate in the promotion of tourism in the province,” he said.

“We have realised the importance and benefit that tourism can develop the eight million people of PNG. 

“Tourism has provided another revenue alternative apart from copra and cocoa.” 

Mano commended the Tourism Promotion Authority and the accreditation scheme consultant Michael Pusilleni, saying it was a pioneering achievement for the province and the country.

Mano encouraged stakeholders to work together in implementing the accommodation scheme.

ENB tourism board chairman Douglas Pidi urged local tourism operators to participate in the accreditation scheme. 

“At least, we have a formal document to improve and market the industry in PNG from all the challenges faced,” Pidi said.

Deputy administrator coordination and implementation Eddie Lamur added that such a development was significant. 

He added that there were impediments to be addressed, including law and order.

“We have implemented the public private partnership approach in ENB taking into effect the launching of the programme in the province,” Lamur said. 

“This has been boosted with the creation of authorities to enhance tourism in the province.  

“We feel right now to be on the right footing with our partners and stakeholders.”