BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Double Islands (Rua Kokomu) Resort in Central Islands Province (CIP) officially opened on Friday March 6, 2026, marking a significant milestone for the tourism sector in the province and the Solomon Islands as a whole.
The opening showcased a new world-class two-storey hotel offering more than 20 rooms for visitors. The Double Islands project includes the completion of the hotel, a hall, dining facilities, and an upgraded dormitory.
The investment reflects the economic transformation policy of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to create opportunities for local communities through tourism development in the province.
Director of Double Islands Resort, Mr Michael Leong, said the achievement fulfilled a dream envisioned by his late father, Patrick Leong, more than 13 years ago, to make Double Islands a destination for visitors.
He said the realization of the vision aligns with the government’s policy direction to regionalize tourism and strengthen confidence in CIP by supporting smaller accommodation providers and tour operators, while reinforcing the entire tourism value chain.
Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, Rolland Seleso, who was the keynote speaker at the event, said economic transformation is one of GNUT’s key priorities, with tourism recognised as a vital sector that can drive that transformation.
“Through tourism we have the opportunity to generate income, create employment, empower local communities, and stimulate development across our beautiful provinces.
“Projects such as this demonstrate how government policies and private sector investment can work together to translate national ambition into real opportunities on the ground for the betterment and advancement of our local people,” he said.
Premier of Central Islands province, Kenneth Sagupari, acknowledged the national government and the Leong family for the achievement, emphasizing that it marks a significant milestone in the province’s journey towards inclusive growth through tourism development.
He said tourism is one of the priorities of the Government of Change and Rural Transformation (GCRT) of CIP, and encourages all stakeholders, hoteliers, tour operators, communities, and government to collaborate to make the province a premier destination.
Sagupari also assured the commitment of his government to harness the province’s tourism potential for the benefit of its people by investing in quality tourism infrastructure such as Double Islands Resort.
“We are creating jobs, stimulating local businesses, and showcasing our province’s unique cultural heritage and natural beauty.
“Double Island Hotel is more than just a new business. It is a symbol of what is possible when we work towards a common goal together,” he said.
Minister for Culture and Tourism, Choylin Douglas, acknowledged the proprietors of Double Islands for their partnership with the ministry and their contribution to the development of tourism in the country.
She said although the ministry’s support towards the Double Islands Resort may be small, it is symbolic and represents the government’s commitment to stand alongside investors who are willing to take the risk to develop the country’s tourism sector.
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