Myanmar’s Ministry of Hotels and Tourism and the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs are collaborating to develop and promote sports tourism, with a strategic focus on the year 2025. A coordination meeting was held on June 13 at the Nilar Hall of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism in Nay Pyi Taw to outline a comprehensive strategy for this initiative.
The meeting was led by Union Minister for Hotels and Tourism, Dr. Thet Thet Khay, and Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, U Min Thein Zan. Attendees included deputy ministers, directors-general, and other officials from both ministries, who gathered to discuss how to leverage Myanmar’s assets to attract both domestic and international tourists through sports.
### Strategy to Leverage Natural Landscapes
Dr. Thet Thet Khay highlighted Myanmar’s significant potential for sports tourism, citing the country’s diverse natural landscapes which include mountains, rivers, and a long coastline. She emphasized that these geographical features are ideal for a wide range of activities such as trekking, hiking, mountaineering, cycling, marathons, rafting, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, surfing, and diving.
The minister also pointed to the potential of promoting golf tourism and traditional sports like “Chinlone” (caneball) as unique attractions. The overarching goal is to create appealing tour packages that can attract foreign currency, support the national economy, and enhance Myanmar’s international image. Key considerations discussed included the development of sports infrastructure, ensuring the safety and security of tourists, and providing adequate healthcare services.
### Inter-Ministerial Collaboration and Development
U Min Thein Zan affirmed the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs’ commitment to the initiative. He stated that his ministry would provide the necessary sports grounds, halls, and technical assistance to support the development of sports tourism products. He agreed that combining sports activities with the tourism sector would create unique and attractive travel experiences.
During the meeting, officials from both ministries discussed detailed plans for creating new tour packages and promoting them in domestic and international markets. The discussions also covered the importance of improving sports facilities to meet international standards to attract a wider range of events and visitors. The joint effort aims to establish Myanmar as a leading destination for sports tourism.
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