TPA Promotes Tourism Safety for East New Britain

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) strengthened its partnership with East New Britain Province (ENB) by hosting several meetings in Rabaul and Kokopo with relevant authorities and tourism stakeholders from Thursday 14 to Tuesday 18 November, 2024.

The meetings were aimed to address the rising safety and security concerns for cruise tourists visiting Rabaul.

TPA has shared empathy in understanding the current challenges that are being faced in ENB and has consulted with the Provincial Government to identify possible solutions to consider for the protection and sustainability of Cruise Tourism in the province.

The meetings strengthened the Provincial Government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all international visitors, particularly as the country seeks to promote its reputation as a premier cruise destination in the Pacific.

The meetings held in Rabaul and Kokopo, brought together key stakeholders, including provincial government representatives, mayors and ward councillors, local community leaders, and youth representatives and tourism operators.
Strategies were discussed on how TPA can work in partnership with the province to mitigate risks and create a safer environment for tourists, with a focus on practical measures such as increasing security presence and youth volunteer engagements at the port, popular tourism product sites, community engagement, to improve the coordination of Cruise Tourist Tours within the province going forward.

Cruise tourism is a growing segment of Papua New Guinea’s economy bringing in more than 30, 000 tourists per annum, and with Rabaul being one of the top cruise destinations for its cultural/historical richness and natural beauty, it is essential for PNG to prioritise ensuring that the Cruise Industry is supported well through adequate funding and resources.

Governor of ENB, Hon. Michael Marum expressed his optimism and commitment towards strengthening collaboration between the provincial government and PNGTPA to assist with strengthening community policing in the province.

The TPA and ENB authorities have agreed to establish effective communication to coordinate a memorable experience for Cruise Tourists going into 2025 starting with the arrival of Carnival Luminosa into Rabaul on the 30th of November this year carrying 2,260 passengers.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo is fully committed to restoring the country’s destination image to our global partners in the cruise tourism industry following the recent attack on cruise tourists in Rabaul.

“Tourism is not just about showcasing our country’s beauty; it’s about ensuring our visitors feel safe and welcomed. This collaboration is a step towards building trust and confidence in Papua New Guinea as a safe and desirable Cruise Tourist Destination,” said Uvovo.

TPA remains confident in the capacity and potential of the country to grow as a cruise destination and this allows the opportunity for the government and stakeholders to review, re-strategize and build back better to improve the quality of tourist experiences for the benefit of the visitors and local citizens.

“In spite of the setbacks presented COVID, law and order among other constraints, Papua New Guinea will continue to persevere amidst these challenges to mobilise resources together with our stakeholders to grow the local cruise tourism industry and this marks a significant moment in our tourism development journey.

Ensuring the safety and satisfaction of visitors will not only enhance the country’s global reputation but also create long-term economic benefits for our people, and we look forward to working with other provinces to ensure that PNG’s image as a tourist destination is protected,” said Uvovo.