Banglamung District Chief
Sakchai Taengho chairs the recent “Improve the Intensity of Local
Tourism Safety” forum.
Surasak Huasoon
Local government officials and police met with hotel operators
and business owners to outline ways Pattaya is trying to make the area
safer for tourists.
Banglamung District Chief Sakchai Taengho chaired the “Improve the
Intensity of Local Tourism Safety” forum Oct. 13. The event was
organized following the Sept. 15 murder of two British backpackers in
Koh Tao to re-evaluate safety measures for tourists.
Following the killings, Chonburi Gov. Khomsan Ekachai ordered security
improved in the province to ensure a Koh Tao-like tragedy doesn’t occur
here. Among the changes outlined to business operators were: increased
patrols, more police checkpoints, meetings between public officials and
private-business operators, and adding lighting and CCTV cameras to
high-risk areas.
Also discussed was cooperation with local government organizations to
state safety standards for tourism-area safety and shops, such as
protecting tourist sites to prevent crime and create a good-host sense
while offering convenience and initial relief to tourists. Training of
community leaders will be offered to accomplish that goal.
Finally, authorities want the public to be more involved with creating a
safer environment in Pattaya, Sakchai said.
