The average hotel occupancy rate stood at 76.27%, with Thai visitor numbers rising and a marginal dip among foreign arrivals, Phuket Governor Nirat Phongsitthaworn said during the November meeting of the ‘provincial committee’ at Phuket Provincial Hall.
The meeting was attended by senior provincial officials, including Vice Governors Adul Chuthong and Suwit Phansengiam; Capt Rewat Onla-or, Director of ISOC Phuket; Chamnan Tanthawachiraphan, Phuket Provincial Prosecutor; Pol Col Theerawat Liamsuwan, Deputy Commander of Phuket Provincial Police; as well as department heads, private-sector representatives, and local administrative organisations.
Gov Nirat said that tourism confidence was expected to strengthen following improving China-Thailand relations, boosted by the recent visit of the Thai head of state to China,
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported that the Chinese market is poised to rebound, with its ongoing ‘Trusted Thailand’ campaign aimed at building sustained confidence among international travellers, he added.
The governor reaffirmed Phuket’s development direction under the ‘Phuket 7 Move’ initiative – a strategic framework aimed at driving the island towards becoming a “new economic city” built on stability, sustainability and innovation.
The initiative emphasises cooperation among all sectors, prioritising public interest, equality and strengthening a shared identity under ‘Phuket One’, he said.
Gov Nirat added that the strategy aligns with the five-year provincial development plan, which aims to position Phuket as: an innovative city; a high-value service hub; a livable city; and a province where all groups have equal opportunities.
Before the meeting, participants observed a moment of silence in honour of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, followed by the presentation of certificates and six honorary plaques recognising outstanding contributions from individuals and organisations.
The committee reviewed preparations for the upcoming royal visit by His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen, who will preside over award presentations at the 37th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta next week.
Officials also finalised plans for Dec 5 events marking the birthday anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which is also celebrated as Thailand National Day and Father’s Day, along with rehearsals for protocols related to foreign affairs.
Preparations for the Thailand Biennale, Phuket 2025 contemporary art festival are underway, with authorities monitoring budget allocations for key infrastructure and cultural projects, said an official report of the meeting.
The official grand opening for the Thailand Biennale is supposed to be held tomorrow (Nov 29).
Water resource officials at the meeting confirmed that Phuket’s water supply remains “safe”, with current conditions well within secure levels.
Officials at the meeting also reported on “progress made” in trying to resolve traffic congestion, including the removal of barriers at the Koh Kaew U-turn, the reorganisation of traffic flow in front of Baan Chalong School and the Nakok Intersection, and improvements to the Khwang Rd Intersection in Phuket Town.
The meeting also reviewed Phuket’s mobilisation of aid for communities affected by severe flooding in southern provinces. Government agencies, private organisations, foundations, municipalities and volunteer networks have deployed personnel, rescue boats, water pumps, relief bags, medicine and logistics assistance.
Governor Nirat stressed that Phuket “will not abandon its southern neighbours”, affirming ongoing support until conditions improve.