Peilapalap, Pohnpei: March 6, 2025 – In a groundbreaking step toward boosting Pohnpei’s economic growth, a newly formed development company led by Attorney Kembo Mida, a successful hotelier, and Ryan S. Roque, a longtime businessman and former architect for Pohnpei State, has presented bold plans to construct a 200-room high-end hotel in Pohnpei.
In a meeting with Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, key State Senators from Sokehs—Hon. Tendy Liwy, Hon. Francisco Simram, and Hon. Aisek Artui—and other government leaders, the developers outlined their ambitious vision for what could become a game-changer for Pohnpei’s economy. The proposed location for this major development is the Sokehs Technical Park, a site with strategic potential for tourism, business, and job creation.
Also present at the meeting were Sokehs Municipal Chief Magistrate Stanley Ernest, Director of the Department of Land Luciano Abraham, and Mr. Walberg Hadley from the State Attorney General’s Office. Key discussions focused on land rights, responsibilities, and next steps, including land surveys and securing the necessary approvals from both Sokehs Municipal and State Government authorities.
Governor Joseph expressed his full support for this transformative project, recognizing its potential to boost local employment, stimulate investment, and expand the island’s tourism industry. “This project represents an exciting step forward in Pohnpei’s development,” said Governor Joseph. “A world-class hotel will not only bring jobs but also showcase Pohnpei as a premier destination for visitors and investors.”
Both Mr. Mida and Mr. Roque emphasized their commitment to helping the local economy and uplifting the people of Pohnpei through sustainable development and job creation. Both men bring years of relevant experience between them, including the running of a successful hotel, L5, in Chuuk by Mr. Mida, and several innovative and succesful construction projects by Mr. Roque, across Pohnpei.
The next steps in the project include conducting a comprehensive land survey, securing the necessary government approvals, and engaging local stakeholders to ensure that the development is both economically beneficial and environmentally responsible.
This ambitious initiative signals a new era for Pohnpei’s economy—one that embraces innovation, investment, and opportunity for its people.
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