Arugam Bay marks World Tourism Day

Special events to mark World Tourism Day were held last Saturday at the New Tistar Beach Hotel, Arugam Bay. The program was organized by the Chamber of Tourism & Industry under the global theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”

The event, hosted by the Chamber of Tourism & Industry Sri Lanka, was attended by a distinguished gathering. 

M. S. Abdul Wasith, Member of Parliament, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Ampara District Deputy Inspector General of Police Sujith Wethamulla was the Guest of Honour. 

Among the special invitees were M. G. Priyantha, Chairman of the Eastern Provincial Tourism Bureau; Dr. R. Gnanasekar, General Manager of the Tourism Bureau; OIC Pottuvil Police Station Dhammika Kariyawasa; Brigade Commander of 242 Komari Camp Kalantha Koralage; STF Arugam Bay Area Commander SP Samaranayake; and NPP Pottuvil Organizer Adham Salim.

The gathering also included senior officials from the Defense Department, representatives of the tourism industry, local government members, and representatives from both government and non-governmental organizations, along with members of the Arugam Bay Auto Welfare Organization, Sustainable Lanka Organization, and Clean Sri Lanka.

Certificates of appreciation were presented to individuals and organizations who have significantly contributed to promoting tourism in the Arugam Bay region. In addition, high-ranking officers of the Tri-Forces and Police were honored with mementos in recognition of their dedicated service in ensuring the safety and security of the area.

Adding a social development aspect to the day’s proceedings, school students of Sinhala Maha Vidyalaya, Pottuvil were presented with school bags by the National Tourist Association.

Speaking at the event, A.M. Jaufer, President of the Chamber of Tourism & Industry Sri Lanka, urged all stakeholders to join hands to strengthen the tourism sector. He emphasized that collective effort and sustainable practices are vital not only for the growth of the tourism industry but also for boosting the country’s overall economy.