Among those present at the launch of the training sessions, held yesterday at the Bhukitta Boutique Hotel in Phuket Town, were Ratchadaphon Oin from Phuket Tourism and Sports Office, Udomporn Kan from the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM-Phuket), Dr Anon Kaewbamrung, Deputy Chief of the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO); and Natchaphong Pranit, Chief of the Phuket Marine Office.
Also present were Pol Lt Col Jirasak Siemsak, Deputy Commander of Phuket Provincial Police, Pol Lt Col Ekkachai Siri of Phuket Tourist Police, Pol Lt Col Jeera Yut Niyomdet of the Marine Police Region 3 branch and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office Director Lertchai Wangtrakuldee.
Governor Sophon highlighted the importance of the training program in light of “recent water accidents that had impacted the safety image of marine tourism in Phuket”, said an official report of the training session.
Of note, Governor Sophon avoided specifically mentioning the ‘Apirak 89’ tour speedboat accident on Dec 31 that killed a 5-year-old Russian girl. The ’Apirak 89’ was returning from Phi Phi island with a Russian family on board when the boat operator lost control and slammed into rocks at Koh Maiton, resulting in the tragic death of 5-year-old Liza Pak and resulted in serious injuries to five others.
So far, police, and Phuket officials, including Governor Sophon, still have have not given any clear explanation of what legal consequences the boat operator, who tested positive for meth use, is to face, or any updates on the conditions of the remaining people on the boat who suffered serious injuries.
Regardless, Governor Sophon yesterday emphasised the “province’s commitment” to elevating safety measures and instilling confidence among tourists. He also stressed the role of boat operators and crews in creating a secure atmosphere, building trust, and shaping a positive perception of Phuket Province, said the official report.
“From the water accidents that occurred in the past year, there have been widespread news broadcasts, resulting in the image of safety in marine tourism in Phuket decreasing,” Governor Sophon said.
“There is a great effort to push for upgrading safety measures in all aspects of water tourism. This training is another important activity that will help promote a safe atmosphere and build confidence among tourists and create a good image and perception of Thailand, because boat operators and crews is an important force that will create a safe atmosphere confidence and a good image of Phuket Province,” he continued.
“The most important thing from this activity is the expansion of knowledge received by workers [in Phuket’s marine tour industry]. We need to help check on each other, and help take care of each other, to deliver a good and valuable travel experience to tourists,” he said.
Ms Ratchadaphon echoed Governor Sophon’s sentiments, emphasising the critical role of the tourism industry in Phuket’s economy.
“Despite past successes in attracting tourists and generating income, the industry faced challenges, particularly in terms of confidence and safety perceptions,” Ms Ratchadaphon said.
The "training to develop the potential of ship operators and seafarers" aimed to address these issues by equipping 70 participants with knowledge on hospitality, laws, regulations, and safety protocols in providing water transportation services, she noted.
The training covered seven key areas, including being a good host, laws and regulations regarding passenger boats, weather forecasting for shipping, boat care and maintenance, marine safety principles, basic assistance to the injured, and addressing incidents and offenses related to drug use, explained the official report of the training.
The organisers of the training ope that the training program will not only prevent accidents and loss of life but also restore the confidence of tourists in using passenger boat services in Phuket, the official report said.
“By promoting a culture of mutual support and vigilance among boat operators and seafarers, Phuket aims to provide a safe and enjoyable maritime tourism experience, contributing to the province’s overall economic, social, and cultural well-being,” the report concluded.