The project, launched under the policy of Tourist Police Commissioner of Pol Lt Gen Saksira Pueak-am, seeks to reskill and upskill officers through targeted training sessions to ensure a warm and safe welcome for visitors during Phuket’s high season, explained a report of the project.
The program, conducted over two sessions on Nov 11 and 25, brought together 280 participants, including Phuket Tourist Police officers, local police, volunteers, representatives from consulates, and tourism-related professionals.
Students from the Tourism Services Program at Phuket Rajabhat University also joined the initiative, emphasizing the importance of integrating young talent into the tourism sector.
The training covered a range of topics, including:
- The history, origins, and cultural identity of Phuket and Southern Thailand.
- Current trends in tourist behaviour.
- Cultural tourism opportunities in Phuket.
- Core responsibilities and missions of the Tourist Police.
Expert speakers, including representatives from the Andaman Tour Guide Association and the Phuket Provincial Cultural Office, provided insights, ensuring participants gained a comprehensive understanding of their roles.
Key supporters of the program included prominent figures such as Thanusak Phuengdet, President of the Senior Phuket Chamber of Commerce and and Advisor to the Tourist Police Bureau; Kongsak Koopongsakorn, current President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce; Asst Prof Dr. Hiran Prasarnkarn, President of Phuket Rajabhat University; and Puangphaka Chaowwai from the Phuket Provincial Cultural Office.
Upon completion of the training, participants were awarded certificates, while Tourist Police officers received special ‘Tourist Police Guide’ name tags. Tourism personnel were also equipped with magnetic identification strips, symbolising their readiness to assist visitors.
“The initiative aims to create a robust network of Tourist Police and tourism personnel dedicated to providing accurate information, ensuring safety, and offering a welcoming experience to visitors,” the report said.