Myanmar’s first community tourism island opens in Kyunsu

It was attended by Taninthayi Region chief minister Myint Maung and officials. At the ceremony, Taninthayi Region chief minister Myint Maung delivered an opening address. 

“Taninthayi Region has initiated three community based tourisms in which locals can manage the project. In Taninthayi Region, there are three pilot projects. They are in Dawei District, Myeik District and Kawthaung District. The very first pilot project was situated in Sanhlan village in Dawei District and opened in October 2018. The second pilot project is based on an island and it is Don Nyaung Hmaing village in Kyunsu Township.  This project will support poverty elimination in our country.  Regional government, Ministry of Hotel and Tourism and Tourism Entrepreneurs Association will cooperate in development of Don Nyaung Hmaing village community based tourism. I hope it will be the most successful community based tourism in the entire Taninthayi Region,” said Myint Maung, , Taninthayi Region chief minister.

As there are Kayin, Bamar and Salon ethnics living in the village, visitors can observe the traditions and culture of these ethnic people. For the smooth transportation, vessels will be arranged for the circular travel of the island. 

“Preparations have been taken in the village together with locals for two years before the opening ceremony. The island is full of infrastructures for a tourist destination but it is likely to cost a little travel expense. We will run shuttle vessels around the island. If so, development of the other villages around this island will also take place. Besides, we will implement marine tourism in some time,” said Nyo Aye, Director of Taninthayi Region Hotel and Tourism.

IN the past, foreign visitors couldn’t stay overnight at Kyunsu Township. Now, they can rest at night at Don Nyaung Hmaing village as CBT has already implemented.