Aimeliik State, Palau — On Friday, May 9th, the Palau Visitors Authority (PVA) was honored to join Aimeliik State leaders, national partners, and community members in the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for Ngerchebal a newly designated conservation and tourism site developed under the Alii Pass Program.
Located between Koror, Airai, and Aimeliik, Ngerchebal is a striking rock island now open to the public, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and sustainable recreation. As part of Palau’s expanding network of community-based tourism destinations, Ngerchebal focuses on water-based activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming, as well as camping in a tranquil, protected environment.
The opening ceremony featured remarks from Governor Browny Simer, Madam Ambassador Jessica Lee, Ambassador of Republic of China, Taiwan to Palau, Honorable Warren S. Umetaro, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the House of Delegates, Kadoi Ruluked, Managing Director of the Palau Visitors Authority, and Yani Elangel Mesubed, Director of the Bureau of Tourism, MHRCTD. Each speaker emphasized the importance of responsible tourism development, conservation, and community involvement in preserving Palau’s natural rich heritage.
To ensure a comfortable visitor experience, Ngerchebal has been outfitted with basic infrastructure including bathrooms and showers. These facilities support the site's long-term goal of attracting both local and international visitors while maintaining high environmental and safety standards.
As one of the newest additions to the Alii Pass Program, Ngerchebal represents a significant step forward in promoting access to state-managed conservation areas. It also serves as a model for how communities can balance ecological protection with economic opportunity through nature-based tourism.
The Palau Visitors Authority extends its deepest appreciation to Aimeliik State Leaders and all partners who helped bring the Ngerchebal vision to life. This milestone reflects the strength of collaboration between communities, government agencies, and international allies.
We especially recognize the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Surangel Whipps Jr. and Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development, Ngiraiblas Tmetuchl, whose commitment to sustainable development continues to guide national efforts in responsible tourism.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Madam Ambassador Jessica Lee of the Republic of China, Taiwan for their generous funding and steadfast support. Their financial contribution was instrumental in the development of key infrastructure at Ngerchebal, including visitor facilities, helping transform this long-envisioned project into a reality for Aimeliik and all of Palau.
For more information, please contact Aimeliik State Office at 544-2967.