PHUKET, Thailand – A Phuket civic group has submitted a request to Patong police for permission to hold a symbolic public rally calling for tourists to respect Thai laws, local customs and the rights of residents and businesses. The Phuket Land Protection Group, led by Saichon Nuchat, submitted the request at Patong Police Station at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 24. The group was received by Pol. Lt. Col. Somporn Surin, deputy chief of Patong Police.
The group plans to hold the rally on Aug. 28 at Loma Park in front of Patong Beach. Organizers expect at least 500 residents, shop owners and local business operators to attend. Saichon said the gathering would be peaceful and divided into two sessions. The first would give people who say they have been affected by tourist behaviour an opportunity to describe their experiences and raise concerns with relevant authorities. The second session would take the form of a public forum, with government agencies invited to answer questions from residents and discuss possible solutions to problems affecting the local community.
Saichon said the group had received complaints about a range of incidents involving foreign tourists, including alleged disputes over restaurant bills, disagreements over tuk-tuk fares and confrontations involving vehicles and other tourists. He specifically cited Israeli tourists in his comments, alleging that some individuals had caused problems for residents and businesses. He also raised concerns about some French tourists, alleging that groups travelling by vehicle had caused disturbances in different areas. The group said its formation was prompted by concerns that tourist-related problems were becoming increasingly serious in Phuket and other major tourist destinations, including Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.
Saichon said the group wanted government agencies to provide clear information and improve coordination with local residents. He said a lack of communication between authorities and the public had contributed to misunderstandings and frustration. He also claimed that some Israeli visitors arriving in Phuket on direct flights were spending much of their money within businesses operated by members of their own community, rather than with Thai businesses. He called for authorities to examine the issue and its economic impact on local operators.
However, the allegations made by the group are claims by its representatives and do not establish that Israeli or French tourists generally engage in unlawful or inappropriate behaviour. Pol. Lt. Col. Somporn urged organizers to ensure the rally remains peaceful and does not lead to confrontations. He said participants must comply with Thai law and maintain public order. Police also told the organizers that Palestinian flags would not be permitted at the rally and that the gathering must not continue for an excessive period or violate legal requirements. The planned demonstration comes amid growing debate in Phuket over how the island can balance its booming international tourism industry with the interests, safety and quality of life of local residents and businesses.
