PM Wale Positions ‘Happy Isles’ at the Heart of SI’s Tourism Vision
Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Cooper Wale has championed the return of the ‘Hapi Isles’ identity to strengthen Solomon Islands’ tourism profile across the Pacific.
Speaking at the welcome reception of the Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting in Honiara, Prime Minister Wale said the Hapi Isles identity reflects the country’s smiling people, rich cultural diversity and remarkable natural beauty.
The Prime Minister announced that the Hapi Isles brand would be soft-launched at the close of the meeting and called on regional partners to support Solomon Islands in promoting the identity to the world.
He said tourism must go beyond attracting visitor numbers and instead focus on bringing meaningful benefits to local communities, businesses and families.
“We are not chasing visitor numbers alone. We want visitors who stay longer and spend locally, so that the value stays in our islands and with our people,” Prime Minister Wale said.
He emphasised that tourism development must be guided by the Government’s principles of Solomonisation and First Bite, ensuring Solomon Islanders remain at the centre of development and receive the benefits generated from their land, culture and heritage.
The Prime Minister also stressed that Solomon Islands’ tourism ambitions depend on stronger regional cooperation.
This he said includes better air connectivity, joint marketing, private-sector partnerships and improved access to opportunities for emerging tourism destinations.
“Our goal is simple: strong destinations within an even stronger Pacific,” he said.
Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the South Pacific Tourism Organisation’s leadership in advancing tourism as a driver of regional development, aligned with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
He said the Hapi Isles identity offers an opportunity to showcase Solomon Islands to the world while ensuring tourism growth supports local livelihoods, protects cultural heritage and strengthens the country’s economic future.
Source: Prime Minister’s Office, Solomon Islands
