New PBTA chief eyes Pattaya image upgrade

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The new president of the Pattaya Business & Tourism Association said his first job is to set to work improving Pattaya’s image abroad.

In an interview, Ekasit Ngampichet, the son and brother of a pair of former Pattaya-area MPs, said he has invited the heads of all area police stations to attend the PBTA’s April meeting to survey them on what is being done to battle crime and prostitution, which came under scrutiny in the British press recently.

Ekasit ‘Book’ Ngampichet, the PBTA’s new president.
Ekasit ‘Book’ Ngampichet, the PBTA’s new president.

Ekasit, who joined the PBTA board in 2011 and previously served as the association’s secretary, also said his focus will be on issues such as traffic and the water supply.

“All of these things contribute to the general image of Pattaya and its tourism industry because people come here for convenience, security and a good lifestyle,” he said.

Ekasit said he believes Pattaya has a lot of potential, particularly in becoming a major destination for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions. He sees big changes on the MICE front will occur by year-end.

He said the association will continue to work closely with city hall, as it has the same objectives as business leaders in promoting tourism.