PHANG-NGA, 11 December 2014 – The southern Province of Phang-nga is to hold a series of activities to mark the 10th anniversary of the Asian tsunami late this month to regain the confidence of overseas visitors on Thailand’s capabilities to deal with natural disasters.
Phang-nga Governor said the province was severely hit by the Tsunami in 2004, causing over 4,000 deaths including Thai and overseas tourists, and 1,000 missing persons. The government this year assigned the Foreign Ministry, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department and the Thai Red Cross Society to hold a commemorative event and to show to the world that Thailand now has the necessary precaution systems and management skills to reduce risks of natural disasters.
The event will take place at two locations. First location is at Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Park on 24-25 December which will include a storytelling about the tragic attack of the Tsunami, a seminar on the impacts on Tsunami victims and cultural shows.
On 26-27 December, a service will be held at the Police Boat 813 Memorial to remember those who died in the tsunami. It includes wreath laying and VDO presentation on the improvement of areas affected by the 2004 Tsunami as well as a candle-lit ceremony.
The event is expected to draw around 1,300 participants who are diplomatic representatives, members of international organizations and families of those injured and killed. Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha will preside over the opening ceremony to be held on 26 December.
