Myanmar Tourism Marketing
OPERATING AS THE marketing arm of the Myanmar Tourism Federation, Myanmar Tourism Marketing (MTM) is one organisation that has been playing a key role in facilitating this rise.
Formed in 2000 under the guidance of Myanmar’s Ministry of Hotels & Tourism, the non-government and nonprofit body has been bringing together Myanmar-based tourism specialists over the past two decades, promoting the country as a destination offering rich experiences to its visitors.
Speaking to May Myat Mon Win, the Chairperson of MTM, we discover how the organisation is looking to propel this message during the coming years.
AsO: Since inception, how has MTM developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across?
May Myat Mon Win (MMMW): One of our key objectives is to promote Myanmar as a preferred destination for tourists. MTM has organised travel trade shows and road shows overseas and every year we try to enter new markets and new countries to promote Myanmar in this way. MTM has been inviting travel writers, travel journalists and bloggers on media trips so they can better understand what Myanmar has to offer when they share their experiences in publications, in blogs and on social media channels. This can lead to greater credibility, better show that Myanmar is a safe destination to travel, and generally create a better image.
AsO: How would you say Myanmar has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal?
MMMW: Myanmar is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia with a sizeable yet young population and rich natural resources. As such, with over 50 million people, Myanmar has the potential to play a pivotal role in many different business sectors across the country. The government has initiated a wide range of reforms to open its economy further to trade and investment, key factors behind its growing appeal.
AsO: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Myanmar? MMMW: This enchanting country has so much to offer and there are many reasons why someone should visit Myanmar. A land of golden pagodas, ancient capitals, traditional arts and crafts, diversity and warm and friendly people, Myanmar offers a richly rewarding travel experience.
AsO: Are there any specific attractions, landmarks or places to eat and drink that you would recommend?
MMMW: Myanmar has many wonderous sights, from thousands of temples scattered across the countryside in Bagan to the leg-rowers and floating gardens of Inle Lake, and the world-famous Ayeyarwady. However, what makes a country is not merely its landmarks, but more its citizens. While it is true that Myanmar has breathtaking historical sites that you won’t want to miss, its real charm resides in its people.
AsO: What are the best ways of getting around the country? MMMW: For most, the main ways of getting around Myanmar are by air and bus. You can of course mix different modes of transport during your travels depending on your budget and itinerary, but buses are the cheapest form of transport and some destinations can only be reached by air. AsO: What trends are transforming the tourism industry in Myanmar at present? How are you responding to these trends?
MMMW: In the past few months, we’ve been looking at digital transformation as a trend and are now focusing heavily on digital marketing as a way to promote the country both locally and internationally. With rising mobile integration, travellers can now do almost everything via their phone, from booking hotels and flights to choosing their destination. To deliver on these expectations, technology is a must.
AsO: How do you see Myanmar developing as a business travel hub over the next year to two years?
MMMW: We’re planning to Waive visas for some Asian countries, providing e-visas or visas upon arrival to facilitate the fast processing of documents for foreign participants coming to the country. Equally, we’re planning to introduce more hotels and international flights arriving to Myanmar. All of these things will help to make Myanmar a leading MICE destination in the near future.
AsO: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Myanmar?
MMMW: Although 2018 has been a challenging year for tourism in Myanmar, high hopes and strong belief remain across the country that tourism will bring positive change to this culturally diverse nation. In answer to your question, I am very optimistic about the future, yes.