Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, visited Phuket to assess public safety infrastructure and reinforce the government’s commitment to ensuring a secure environment for both domestic and international tourists. The inspection focused on enhancing coordination among agencies and strengthening the island’s readiness as a leading tourism destination.
The minister’s itinerary included site visits to prominent tourist areas and participation in a strategic planning workshop aimed at identifying challenges and opportunities to improve visitor safety. A particular emphasis was placed on the use of technology, such as surveillance systems, and on ensuring that national and local authorities operate under a shared framework to maintain service consistency.
Speaking at a workshop held at the Royal Phuket City Hotel, Sorawong underlined the importance of coordinated action across multiple sectors, highlighting the need for real-time communication and proactive safety enforcement. Attendees, which included government officials, tourism stakeholders, and honorary consuls, discussed ongoing safety efforts and shared feedback from tourists and business operators.
Later in the day, the minister conducted an on-site review at Patong Beach, where he evaluated lifeguard readiness and beach safety operations. He also inspected the 24-hour CCTV Command and Control Center on Bangla Walking Street, observing how security personnel are managed and deployed in high-traffic areas.
The visit concluded with informal conversations with both tourists and local business owners, offering the minister a direct perspective on public sentiment regarding safety and services.
Among those accompanying the minister were Jakrapat Klongpayaban, advisor to the minister; Natreeya Taweewong, permanent secretary; Pol Lt Gen Saksira Pueak-am, Tourist Police Commissioner; and Titipong Khiewpaisal, Chairman of the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA).