(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – The Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE) and Temasek Foundation International (TFI) recently announced a partnership with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) to share Singapore’s experience in digital tourism destination marketing and promotion.
The three-year program, which will include the training of 100 government officials from tourism-associated ministries and agencies, is supported by Temasek Foundation International with a grant amount of S$460,200.
The program was launched at a ceremony held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) on 29 March with the participation of 150 public sector tourism stakeholders in Sri Lanka.
At the event, a grant agreement was signed between Chairman of SLTPB P M Withana, and Chief Executive Officer of SCE. Kong Wy Mun.
Sri Lanka is one of the most popular tourism destinations in the region as it boasts of natural pristine beaches, rare and unique wildlife, picturesque landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. The SLTPB, which is the authoritative government body responsible for handling all marketing and promotional activities related to the travel and tourism industry of Sri Lanka, would like to embark on a digital platform to raise awareness of and promote the country’s tourism attraction sites, as well as to further understand tourist demographics and needs in order to enhance the positioning of and offerings in its tourism industry. It is with this objective in mind that the SLTPB approached SCE and expressed their interest to tap on Singapore’s experience in transforming its tourism industry through technology.
“We are delighted to partner with Temasek Foundation International and Singapore Cooperation Enterprise for the Tourism Development Programme. In this important first step, we hope to build essential skills and strengthen the capacities of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and other line agencies which we work closely with. Learning from the Singaporean tourism story is important for us, and we hope we can learn from their example, and take tourism in Sri Lanka to new heights,” Chairman of SLTPB said.
