Tourism body appeals for warmer welcomes: ‘Ayubowan’, king coconuts and bananas to reassure visitors

By Nishel Fernando

The Sri Lanka Institute of National Tourist Guide Lecturers (SLINTGL) has issued an emotional appeal to the public, urging citizens to go beyond standard hospitality by greeting every tourist with a warm ‘Ayubowan’ or offering simple gestures like a king coconut or banana, to help the industry rebound from recent weather setbacks.  

Speaking at a special media briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, SLINTGL President Janaka Dunusinghe emphasised that a collective, grassroots effort to make visitors feel safe and welcomed is now critical for the national economy. Dunusinghe called on ordinary citizens to become ambassadors for the country during this challenging period. He requested that if a citizen has even a modest amount of money, such as Rs.100, to consider offering a thirsty tourist a king coconut or a fruit as a gesture of goodwill. He stressed that small acts of kindness would go a long way in countering negative international publicity and proving that Sri Lankans remain the most hospitable people in the world.

He noted that the industry’s recovery is not just for the benefit of hoteliers or tour operators, but is a vital economic pillar that supports the entire nation’s recovery efforts. The SLINTGL President also directed a specific message to the transport sector, particularly three-wheeler drivers, urging them to avoid overcharging or harassing tourists. He warned that short-term greed or negative interactions could cause long-term damage to the destination’s reputation, especially when competitor nations are eager to capitalise on any negative news emerging from Sri Lanka. He reiterated that the safety and satisfaction of the tourists currently in the country are the most powerful marketing tools available to the industry.