2-3-2024 (BANGKOK) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has called on Thai citizens to demonstrate kindness and goodwill towards foreign tourists in an effort to enhance the country’s tourism sector. Government spokesman Chai Wacharonke conveyed the prime minister’s concerns over recent disputes that have escalated to physical altercations between locals and foreigners.
Thailand experienced a significant influx of tourists last year, with over 28 million arrivals, and has already welcomed nearly 6 million foreign visitors in the first two months of this year.
The prime minister urged Thai citizens to act as gracious hosts by warmly welcoming foreign visitors who are drawn to Thailand due to their admiration for the country. “They choose to travel and relax here because they appreciate Thainess. Let us show kindness to tourists to support the government’s tourism promotion policy. The tourism industry is a crucial instrument for stimulating the Thai economy,” quoted the spokesman, relaying the premier’s message.
Chai also emphasized the importance of law enforcement in ensuring that visitors comply with Thai laws, particularly when foreigners display “unruly behavior” towards Thai people. “The dignity of the hosts should be protected as well. Foreigners who disregard the law should face legal action, and [the police] should ensure their adherence to Thai law while treating Thais with kindness,” stated Chai.
The government spokesman’s remarks appear to reference a recent incident in Phuket, where a Swiss man was accused of kicking a Thai female doctor at his beachside villa. The doctor and her friend were sitting on steps they believed to be public property, adjacent to the beach.
