I am pleased to present the nnual Report for the financial year ended 31st March 2008 and welcome you to the Second Annual General Meeting of the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises in Tourism Sri Lanka (ASMET).
We continue to be of the opinion that empowering the SME sector in tourism can contribute immensely, towards achieving sustainable growth without damaging our countries culture, heritage, environment, and to develop a high standard of professionalism and quality in the industry. We also believe that maximum economic empowerment and poverty alleviation in tourism generating areas can be achieved through providing a fair share of knowledge and resources to the SME sector of tourism in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the SME sector in tourism is well suited to handle high-end visitors to Sri Lanka who are looking for a life-time experience in nature, adventure, eco-tourism, home stays, and community based tourism with a personalized service.
ASMET’s seats in the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, in the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, and the Sectoral Committees of Nature & Adventure Tourism, SME Tourism and Community Based Tourism of the Ministry of Tourism, has positioned us well to lobby for our members aspirations. On behalf of the Committee and Members of ASMET, I would like to acknowledge with thanks, the recognition, encouragement and support rendered by The Minister of Tourism, Honarable Milinda Moragoda, The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Faizer Mustafa, The Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Mr. George Michael, Additional Secretary, and all officials of the Ministry of Tourism, The Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism, Mr. Renton de Alwis, The Members of the Board, The Director General, Mr. S. Kalaiselvam, Additional Director General Marketing, Mr. Dilip Mudadeniya, Mr. Malraj Kiriella and all officials of the Sri Lanka Tourism, and The Principal and Management of the Sri Lanka Hotel School.
I also wish to express my sincere appreciation to our International Coordinator, Ms. Wilja Witcombe, and my colleagues on the Committee for their invaluable contribution towards achieving ASMET’s goals and objectives.
In conclusion, I would like to thank our members, trade chambers, industry partners, and well-wishers for the trust and confidence you have placed in our ability to guide and direct ASMET to realize its mission.
(Sgd.) Mervyn Fernandopulle
Founder President
