SURAT THANI – The Minister of Tourism and Sports has urged Samui island tourism operators to help upgrade the standard of service, to attract more tourists.
Mr Phiphat Ratchakitprakan, Minister of Tourism and Sports, visited Koh Samui district, Surat Thani province, to follow up on the tourism situation and meet the private sector’s entrepreneurial representatives. Samui island is a world famous tourist destination and was listed as the 9th most beautiful tourist destination in the world in 2018, with millions of Thai and foreign visitors each year. However, the representatives of tourism operators claim that they are currently experiencing problems related to exchange rates because of the baht’s steady appreciation. They have called on the government to establish a bank for tourism, solve infrastructure problems, ensure tourists’ safety, promote environmentally friendly tourism, manage waste in a sustainable manner and develop a deep sea port.
Meanwhile, Mr Phiphat discussed the reduced tourist spending which the operators believe has been caused by the currency’s appreciation. He said the strength of Thailand is not the value of currency but the beauty of the nation’s tourist attractions, delicious food, service and friendliness that impresses tourists. He called on the private sector to focus on these strengths.
Mr Phiphat granted a plaque of honor of good Samaritans including Mr Saroj Chuaykerd, who saved a tourist from drowning at Chaweng beach, Mrs Pranit Senat, Mr Aphiwat Khongrat and Mr Theerawat Kaewnopphakhun, good Samaritans who returned belongings to foreign tourists and helped maintain the good image of Thai tourism.
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