Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended Alotau MP Hon. Ricky Morris for his commitment to developing tourism infrastructure in Milne Bay, describing him as a hardworking leader who has placed the long-term interests of his district ahead of politics.
Speaking at the official opening of the upgraded Gurney Airport, Prime Minister Marape said Mr Morris had effectively utilised District Services Improvement Programme (DSIP) funding to complement the National Government’s investment in the province.
“I want to commend the Honourable Ricky Morris. Although he sits in the Opposition, he has not wasted money. We distribute DSIP funding equally to all districts, and he has worked hard,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister recalled that during his previous visit to Milne Bay, he had praised Mr Morris for investing district funds in developing tourism facilities at East Cape, the easternmost point of mainland Papua New Guinea.
“We gave his district the funding, and he has used it to open up tourism opportunities at East Cape. That is exactly the kind of leadership we need.”
Prime Minister Marape said the National Government’s vision was to position Milne Bay as Papua New Guinea’s premier tourism destination, with the upgraded Gurney Airport serving as the gateway for both domestic and future international visitors.
He said the Government’s long-term plan was to connect the upgraded airport with improved roads stretching from Port Moresby through Central Province to East Cape, creating one of the country’s most significant tourism corridors.
“Our vision is for tourists to fly into Port Moresby, drive through the beautiful coastline of Central Province and Milne Bay, then fly out through Gurney Airport. Others can fly directly into Gurney, explore Milne Bay and depart by sea or air.
“This integrated approach will create opportunities for local people to establish guest houses, cultural attractions, tour operations and other small businesses that keep tourism income within local communities.”
Prime Minister Marape said Milne Bay’s extraordinary cultural diversity, pristine environment and internationally renowned diving destinations placed the province in a unique position to become Papua New Guinea’s leading tourism hub.
He urged provincial, district and local-level leaders to continue working together to maximise the opportunities created by the upgraded airport and complementary infrastructure investments.
“The National Government is creating the enabling infrastructure. Leaders like Ricky Morris are investing at the local level. Together, we can unlock the enormous tourism and economic potential of Milne Bay for generations to come.”