“A Visionary Chairman’s Hope: “Era City” as the Catalyst for a Desirable and Livable Ha Nam Province.”

Ha Nam is a region steeped in history and culture, boasting a wealth of attractive cultural features and historical architectural wonders. In 2023, Ha Nam was recognized as the “World’s Leading Cultural Destination” by World Travel Awards.

However, the province is not resting on its laurels. Ha Nam has grand plans to transform its urban landscape, elevating its status and establishing itself as a prominent cultural and spiritual destination in the region and beyond. Mr. Truong Quoc Huy, Vice Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee, shared with us their ambitious vision.

Attracting Investors with Vision and Passion to Elevate Tourism

– Ha Nam has achieved remarkable success in tourism in recent years. What do you consider to be the province’s greatest strength in attracting tourists?

Ha Nam is a land of cultural and historical richness, boasting numerous sites associated with renowned cultural figures. It is also home to famous spiritual destinations and unique landscapes, such as Tam Chuc Pagoda, Long Doi Son Pagoda, Tran Thuong Temple, Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda, and Chua Bau.

We have been focusing on developing spiritual tourism while conserving nature, and we are planning a reserve for the Delacour’s langur, a rare primate species. Additionally, in 2023, Ha Nam was recognized as the “World’s Leading Cultural Destination” by World Travel Awards.

However, we recognize that Ha Nam’s tourism sector has some limitations. Our tourism products need more diversity, and the infrastructure supporting tourism is still modest. The transportation connections could also be improved. These factors have prevented us from attracting a large number of international tourists.

Moving forward, with the simultaneous development of multiple new infrastructure and transportation projects, as well as large-scale urban initiatives that include entertainment and themed parks, especially with the involvement of major tourism companies like Sun Group, Ha Nam’s tourism is poised for a significant leap forward. We are confident that we will attract a substantial number of domestic and international tourists.

– To establish Ha Nam as a prominent regional and global destination, not just for cultural and spiritual tourism, what short-term and long-term strategies has the province implemented?

Firstly, we prioritize meticulous planning to support our vision of transforming Ha Nam’s urban landscape and elevating its status. A well-designed plan attracts high-quality projects, which in turn attract reputable investors.

Secondly, we are committed to investing in infrastructure and improving transportation connections between tourist attractions and the national transportation network, ensuring safe and convenient travel for visitors.

Thirdly, we are keen on inviting investors who share our passion and vision to join us in creating world-class tourism products and services, while also establishing strong connections between our offerings and destinations.

One of our most critical tasks is to develop appealing products and services that will attract visitors throughout the year, not just during the spring season. We aim to provide experiences that go beyond spiritual tourism, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local culture, explore our scenic landmarks, and enjoy a range of novel and exciting activities. This approach will ensure the sustainable development of Ha Nam’s tourism sector.

Transforming Ha Nam into a Desirable Destination and a Great Place to Live

– How is Ha Nam welcoming major investors to achieve the goal of elevating the urban landscape towards high-quality development and repositioning the province as a desirable destination?

In the provincial planning approved by the Prime Minister, we aim to establish Ha Nam as a centrally-governed city by 2050. To achieve this, we are focused on implementing the approved development plan, with a particular emphasis on upgrading transportation infrastructure to connect tourist attractions and industrial parks with the national transportation network.

Recently, we have successfully attracted prominent investors to Ha Nam, including large corporations with expertise in developing world-class tourism projects, such as Sun Group and Flamingo. In Phu Ly City, we are developing a massive project, Sun Urban City Ha Nam, spanning 420 hectares and boasting a total investment of VND 35,000 billion. This project promises to bring about a new face for Phu Ly, offering a range of benefits: creating a modern and civilized urban area with diverse amenities for residents, and shifting the provincial economy from agriculture to industry and services.

Affected landowners in this urban development project will be provided with alternative employment opportunities in tourism and commerce, ensuring better jobs and higher incomes. We also anticipate that the integration of various parks, including Sun World Park, a sports park, a festival park, a cultural park, and an eco-park, will contribute to a harmonious blend of modern conveniences and natural beauty. Upon completion, Sun Urban City Ha Nam is destined to become an ideal suburban resort city for Hanoi and Red River Delta residents during holidays and weekends.

From an urban management perspective, this new project in Phu Ly has a very low construction density of approximately 18%, yet it significantly contributes to the provincial budget. Utilizing these funds, we will invest in transportation infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and other social amenities to enhance the quality of life for our local residents. I am confident that Sun Urban City Ha Nam will be a game-changer for Phu Ly and provide the impetus for Ha Nam to rise and become a desirable and great place to live in the country.

We are aware that Sun Group is actively promoting investment and organizing a series of large-scale cultural, artistic, and tourism events and activities, scheduled to take place from September and extending until the holiday season of April 30 – May 1, 2025. This unprecedented initiative aims to celebrate the cultural essence of Northern Vietnam, connecting renowned tangible and intangible cultural heritages in the region. It will transform the “Doi Mountain and Chau River” area into one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country. Additionally, Sun World Ha Nam Park is expected to be completed and operational by next summer.

With our advantageous location, strong tourism foundation, and these exciting events and offerings, we are confident in our ability to enhance the appeal of Ha Nam as a destination. We are well on our way to achieving our target of welcoming 5-6 million visitors in 2024, and we are particularly focused on addressing the issue of seasonal tourism, ensuring that visitors to Ha Nam are treated to a diverse range of experiences and emotions.

– With such passionate ideas, how do you envision Ha Nam in the next five years?

Firstly, with our meticulous planning and the support of reputable investors who possess financial strength and extensive experience, I am confident that Ha Nam will witness a remarkable transformation in its transportation infrastructure within a short period.

Secondly, the urban landscape will undergo a significant shift, with well-planned urban areas that offer a full range of amenities, meeting the needs of both residents and investors, such as Sun Urban City. This will contribute to making Phu Ly, Ha Nam a desirable place to live.

Thirdly, Ha Nam’s tourism will receive the attention and development it deserves, commensurate with its potential. Visitors to Ha Nam will not only engage in spiritual activities but also immerse themselves in unique artistic and cultural experiences, complemented by world-class entertainment and recreational services. I am certain that Ha Nam will witness a steady increase in tourist arrivals, and we are optimistic about reaching our goal of welcoming 10 million visitors by 2030. Most importantly, Ha Nam will become a must-visit destination for both domestic and international travelers to Vietnam.

Thank you for your insights, Mr. Huy!