Meghalaya citizens should be more welcoming to tourists: Mayralborn Syiem

SHILLONG:

Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, on November 25, emphasised the need for a more welcoming attitude towards outsiders in Meghalaya as the government actively seeks to boost tourism in the state.

Speaking to the reporters, Syiem said, “We have beautiful places in Meghalaya, but we have to promote these natural gems. First, we have to change our mindset and have to be more welcoming. Tourists, when they come here, they come to invest.”

Highlighting the widespread benefits of tourism, Syiem said that everyone, from taxi drivers to shopkeepers and guest house owners, stands to gain. He stressed the necessity for a change in mindset and a hospitable approach to ensure a positive experience for tourists.

“It is only then people start visiting the state, and when tourists come, money will be pumped into the state,” he said.

Recognising the pivotal role of the tourism sector in the state’s growth, Syiem urged various societies and localities to actively collaborate with the government. He encouraged them to leverage entrepreneurial schemes offered by the government to actively contribute to and capitalise on the promotion of tourism.