Dear Partners and Friends,
Quote – “Whilst we anticipate there may be some apprehension to travel to the island, we can assure you that the Sri Lanka destination tourism partners, hotels and ground operators are working in tandem with the government in introducing additional measures to ensure safety and allay these concerns. These will logically & reassuringly include more high-profile policing. We expect that within a few months, Sri Lanka will be just as popular as ever, with clients from around the world defiantly refusing to be beaten by any cowardly act. We have experienced this in so many countries including the UK (London and Manchester) and we have no reason to think Sri Lanka will be any different. In many ways, Sri Lanka could be safer now than before, due to the security measures now in place.” – Unquote
I’m sharing with you above a section of a letter written by one of our Tour Operator Partners to their clients.
At this time of grief, it is the outpouring of love and such support, and our dedicated and committed teams at Jetwing and our faith in God that is keeping us focused to continue showcasing our beautiful Island Home Sri Lanka to the world. My brother Hiran and I are in Jaffna as I write this now. We drove through the beautiful countryside to get to a part of the country that was just beginning to get back on their feet. Our teams are resilient and committed to serve.
Many countries have placed a travel ban to Sri Lanka other than for essential travel. We do understand this as ensuring the safety of one’s citizens is paramount. It is the same responsibility we have towards our associates and guests. We will never knowingly expose anyone to any potential danger.
You may have read many reports alleging lapses in our political leadership, which I am not competent to comment on. However, we are very confident that the Security Forces who have had all their powers restored will do everything needed to not only ensure the safety of all Sri Lankans and visitors but also restore the lost perception that Sri Lanka is as safe as any other country in the world. They have already apprehended many and are continuing their search operations, for which we are grateful.
We thank all those visitors who in spite of everything continued their holidays in Sri Lanka and those others who did not cancel their trips after Easter Sunday. In fact, we spoke to a British couple at the hotel last night who were defiant and assured us they are continuing their trip in the country. I have heard some say, “how can we enjoy, when there is so much sadness among the people?”. Whilst appreciating their empathy, humbly I say, if you don’t, some people may have their livelihoods impacted.
Yes, we are broken, I would lie if I said otherwise. But, as I said before, with all your love and support, the skill and efficiency of one of the best armed forces in the world who defeated brutal terrorism, communities committed to stay together and eradicate extremism in all forms, a Jetwing team who is legendary in providing genuine Sri Lankan hospitality, the extra security measures we have adopted, and the indomitable human spirit, we will rise.
Once again thank you for your prayers, kind words, deeds and thoughts,
With warm wishes,
Shiromal Cooray
Chairman & Managing Director – Jetwing Travels (Pvt) Ltd
Chairman – Jetwing Hotels Ltd
