The Ministry of Tourism this week unveiled ambitious plans for developing the Northern and Eastern provinces in the post war era.
Following the launch of ‘Small Miracle’, the new Sri Lanka Tourism brand on Tuesday, Secretary to the Ministry George Michael said district secretaries in the North have been asked to identify land for tourism but only after the settlements of the displaced persons is finished. Addressing a media briefing on Wednesday, Mr. Michael said religious and archeological sites throughout the North will be compiled into a DVD to educate people on the sights and sounds of the province.
 |
| Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayake, Speaker W.J.M.Lokubandara, Tourism Minister Milinda Moragoda and his deputy, Faizer Musthapha in a pensive mood at the launch of the new logo of Sri Lanka Tourism. Pic by J. Weerasekera. |
Following in the footsteps of other developed tourism markets in the Asian region and their branding strategies such as Malaysia, India and the Maldives, Sri Lanka’s new brand, ‘Small Miracle’ has been tested in all key markets and found to be acceptable.
According to Mr. Michael, tourism is a product which needs to be marketed to the world with an attractive brand, similar to Malaysia’s successful ‘Asia Truly Malaysia’ campaign or India’s ‘Incredible India’ marketing strategy.
Mr. Michael said tourism is starting afresh. The Eastern province which was shut off for the past 30 years is now open again. He also called on experts around the country to share their views on developing the tourism industry. Mr. Michael added that there are improvements that have to be made and regulations which have to be implemented to make sure safety standards are at the highest for certain tourist activities. For example, boats have to be safe for sailing.
The Ministry has also undertaken several projects island wide including setting up information centres for tourists in well known locations. Meditation centres have also been set up with basic facilities for travelers and a model village in Horana has been created as a tourist attraction where traditional industries such as weaving, textiles and pottery can be seen in one location.
In addition, two electric cars that emit no sound or dust pollution have been given to the Anuradhapura Sri Maha Bodhi to assist disabled or elderly persons to see the sights. There are plans for other well-known locations to use electric cars as well. Other small scale infrastructure development projects are also in the works. Around six community tourism villages have been set up to create opportunities for tourists to interact with the locals and the communities.
Mr. Michael highlighted the fact that garbage in public places has created a big environmental problem in Sri Lanka. He said people have to change their mindset when it comes to keeping the country clean and make an effort to use the garbage cans provided at public places. He added that locals and tourists should also take care of facilities provided for their use. |
E-mail