The local company, Sea Lion Group proposed to build an eco-resort project along Ma Kyay Ngu Beach near Gwa township, Rakhine State

Local company Sea Lion Group has announced its intention to build an eco-resort at a site located along Ma Kyay Ngu Beach, near Gwa Township, Rakhine State.

The company is proposing to build a hotel, shopping centre, and organic farm on a 20 hectare site across the Gwa River from Gwa Township.

The project, which will be the first of its kind in Gwa, will include swimming pools, an 80-room hotel, arrival jetty, and areas specifically for shallow swimming, water sports, and children.

Upon receiving approval for the project, construction will begin in phases. According the proposal, the company will invest K7.5 billion (US$4.9 million) in the project which is expected to support economic and social development in the area.

U Aung Kyaw Zan, Rakhine State Minister for Electricity, Industry and Transportation, said: “It is good if this project comes to fruition. It will help the tourism sector develop and also create job opportunities for the locals.”

“We are expecting investors. We have no objection for such a big project with huge investment value at our beach, as long as it is in line with rules and regulations,” he said.

When The Myanmar Times tried to contact the officials from Sea Lion Group, it was replied no official statement can be made yet as it is still under preparation.

The region has a beautiful natural environment and beach areas suitable for tourism-based businesses. Infrastructure projects to improve electricity supply, and roads in the area, also make it a good time to invest in projects, the company said.

The firm has so far bought the land on which the project is to be implemented. However, the site of the proposed project is currently categorised as agricultural land, and the company is in the process of having the status reclassified by the authorities.

The resort will also be built near Gwa Bridge, which is currently under construction. The 1300-foot long bridge is expected to link Rakhine to Ayeyarwady region when complete next year.

“After the bridge is finished, more hotels may emerge to the benefit of the region’s development,” said U Aung Kyaw Zan.

The government is also developing a project dubbed The Orbit along Nga Thine Chaung-Gwa Beach. The Orbit, which spans from Nga Yote Kaung in Ayeyarwaddy Region to Gwa in Rakhine State, is being developed with government support.

For a total investment of K300 billion, the project will bring coastal development, tourism opportunities and access to electricity to the region, it will also enable agriculture products from Ayeyarwady to reach Rakhine and be exported via Sittwe Port and Maungdaw Trade Zone. – Translated

(The Myanmar Times: https://www.mmtimes.com/news/local-company-proposes-eco-beach-resort-project-gwa-rakhine.html )

​