‘Creative Tourism’ seminar in Phuket next week

PHUKET: In preparation for the measures of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) set to take effect in less than three years, the Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) will host a seminar on Friday, July 20 to promote sustainable tourism under the concept of “creative tourism”.

Among the distinguished guests invited to speak are former Bangkok Governor and current Democrat Party deputy leader Apirak Kosayodhin; Thai AirAsia CEO Tassapon Bijleveld; and Thana Thienachariya, CEO of Grammy Entertainment’s satellite TV network GMM Z.

PTA President Somboon Jirayus said that while every sector is preparing for the AEC, the tourism sector will be particularly impacted, both directly and indirectly.

“We see the importance of increasing understanding among PTA members about the impacts that [the AEC] will have on the tourism business in Phuket, so this seminar is designed to increase clarity and educate our members,” said Mr Somboon.

“We’ve invited Democrat Party deputy leader Apirak Kosayodhin to talk about the challenges and opportunities of AEC, while Thai AirAsia CEO Tassapon Bijleveld and a representative from Kasikorn Bank will also analyze the pros and cons for Phuket once the AEC comes into effect in 2015.

“In addition to the knowledge that members will receive from our guest speakers, they will also have the opportunity to share and exchange their own knowledge and experiences in the tourism industry,” he said

PTA Vice President Bhummikitti Ruktaengam said that the association will incorporate the “creative tourism” concepts into Phuket’s overall tourism development plan.

Thus, one of the seminar topics will be Phuket Creative Tourism, with a discussion led by Mr Thana of GMM Z.

The seminar will be held at the new meeting hall at Phuket Rajabhat University in Rassada subdistrict. The registration fee is 300 baht for PTA members and 400 baht for non-members, including lunch.

Anyone interested in participating can register with the PTA or get more information by calling 076-610365.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong