On 16/9, the Quang Ngai Province Investment, Trade and Tourism Promotion Center, in collaboration with the Mang Den Commune People's Committee and representatives from various provincial departments (Culture, Sports and Tourism; Construction; Agriculture and Environment), conducted a field survey at the Pa Sy waterfall area. The purpose was to study an eco-tourism project proposed by Song Viet Joint Stock Company.

The project, proposed by a consortium of three investors led by Song Viet Joint Stock Company, would encompass 69 hectares. It requires a total investment of 800 billion VND, with 300 billion VND from equity and 500 billion VND from loans. Implementation is planned for 2026-2030, utilizing an "invest-and-operate" approach.

The investor has committed to preserving 20,5 hectares of the 69-hectare planned area as untouched forest. This includes 9,5 hectares within the Pa Sy waterfall's core zone and 11 hectares of surrounding scenic forest. No construction will take place on forest land, nor will there be any interference with the waterfall's natural flow.

All construction will be confined to land specifically designated for tourism and service, with the overall construction density for the site not exceeding 7.5%, or 5,2 hectares.

The proposed service infrastructure includes 180 accommodation units, such as resort hotels, bungalows, family villas, treehouses, and premium glamping tents, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding mountain forest.

Conference facilities will feature a MICE center with a 600-seat capacity, alongside outdoor event and team-building spaces. To highlight local culture, the project will establish a 1,3-hectare Xo Dang - Mo Nam cultural village. This village will recreate traditional architectural styles like communal houses, longhouses, and stilt houses, complemented by craft villages. An outdoor theater with 1.200 seats will host nightly performances of gongs and Central Highlands music.

Artists in traditional costumes performing at Pa Sy waterfall. *Photo: Mang Den Commune Media Center*

Pa Sy waterfall, nestled within Mang Den's pine forests, is a well-known natural landmark, featuring cascades over rock formations amidst pristine wilderness. Investors argue that this new resort will address critical shortcomings in Mang Den's current tourism offerings. These include short visitor stays due to limited engaging experiences, a lack of infrastructure for medium to large-scale conferences and events, and seasonal variations that cause fluctuating room occupancy and employment.

The MICE model is envisioned as a key driver, complementing luxury accommodation, onsen hot springs, ecological experiences, and local cultural immersion. This strategy aims to boost room occupancy during off-peak seasons and increase average visitor spending. MICE, an acronym for Meeting, Incentive, Conference, and Exhibition, refers to a specialized segment of tourism focused on organizing events and conferences for businesses and large groups.

During the meeting, the Quang Ngai Province Investment Promotion Center and various departmental representatives expressed support for the consortium's proposal and encouraged further research. The head of the Mang Den Commune People's Committee urged the investor to develop unique tourism products to enhance the local industry's competitive edge. They also indicated a willingness to work with authorities to rezone agricultural land for tourism purposes if the project moves forward.

Pham Linh