Amb McDonald discussed cooperation between Australian and local government roles, focusing on tourist safety and our people-to-people links between Thailand and Australia.
The meeting, held at the Phuket Provincial Governor’s Reception Room, was hosted by Vice Governor Ronnarong, alongside key officials, including Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum and Sopon Thongsai, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket).
Amb McDonald expressed her gratitude to Phuket’s authorities for their efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of tourists, said an official report of the meeting.
Highlighting that over 600,000 Australian tourists visited Thailand this year, with many choosing Phuket as a destination, she praised the collaboration between local agencies and Australia.
“Phuket’s proactive measures have greatly contributed to making our work easier. Thank you for prioritising the safety and experience of visitors,” Amb McDonald said, noted the report.
Vice Governor Ronnarong underscored the province’s dedication to maintaining safety and fostering a positive experience for all tourists. He noted that Australian visitors rank among the top five international groups visiting Phuket and reaffirmed the province’s commitment to safeguarding both residents and tourists, said the report.
Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum highlighted the importance of following local traffic laws to ensure safety, especially for tourists renting vehicles. He emphasised the need for proper licensing, helmet use, adherence to speed limits and avoiding drinking and driving.
Turning to disaster preparedness, DDPM Phuket Chief Mr Sophon shared updates on Phuket’s recent launch of a ship to deploy two tsunami warning buoys in the Andaman Sea and Indian Ocean. The initiative aims to enhance regional disaster response capabilities, providing timely evacuation warnings and bolstering public confidence in the province’s safety measures, he said.
The visit concluded with both parties expressing optimism about continued collaboration to enhance Phuket’s appeal as a safe and welcoming destination for Australian tourists.
While in Phuket, Amb McDonald also had a chance to meet and discuss Phuket tourism and business with members from the Australian community in Phuket at Soho Pool Club.
Together with Phuket Australian Consul-General in Phuket, Kirsten Fletcher, Amb Macdonald has donated a smart TV to a school through Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation.