Tourism welcomes Foo

 THE Tourism Promotion Authority and the tourism sector have welcomed the appointment of Simon Foo as chief executive officer of Air Niugini.

Authority chief executive Peter Vincent said the tourism sector and industry partners were excited about working with Foo,  given his strong ties to tourism, particularly with his family companies, Taklam Tours and Kokopo Beach Bungalows in East New Britain.

“Foo not only has a long and distinguished career in the airline industry but he has been an active member of the tourism industry over a long time, and on behalf of the board and management of TPA and our tourism industry partners, we congratulate Foo on his appointment,” Vincent said.

He described Foo’s appointment as timely and commended the national government and airline board for appointing an experienced industry person to the job.

Vincent said the travel and tourism industry was entering an exciting era with major economic developments occurring.

He said PNG Tourism was looking at opening up new markets in Asia, particularly in South Korea, and working with someone of Foo’s calibre was positive for the sector’s growth.

Vincent said the authority had partnered Air Niugini in marketing and promotional activities and was looking forward to increasing that with Foo’s leadership.

He added the authority had given its staff new uniforms to reflect its continued push to enhance its corporate image in a highly competitive industry.