Phuket and Indonesia strengthen ties to support local community
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat recently welcomed Suarganana Pringganu, the Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia, to discuss strengthening cooperation and support for the Indonesian community in Phuket. This meeting, held at Phuket Provincial Hall, underscored the importance of nurturing bilateral relations and addressing significant issues such as the welfare and repatriation of Indonesian citizens.
During the discussions, Pringganu acknowledged the substantial Indonesian presence in Phuket, comprising fishermen, tourists, and expatriates, who actively contribute to the local community. He praised Phuket’s cultural initiatives that celebrate batik, Peranakan heritage, and ASEAN traditions, which resonate well with Indonesian nationals.
Concerns were raised regarding the arrest of Indonesian fishermen who entered Thai waters illegally. In the past two years, 80 Indonesian crew members have been detained in Phuket and Satun.
Most have been released but Pringganu urged officials to inform the consulate before such arrests to ensure proper identification and communication, considering the commonality of names among detainees.
Pringganu also requested assistance in simplifying the repatriation process for Indonesian prisoners. He suggested that repatriation be conducted at Phuket International Airport, rather than transferring prisoners to Bangkok’s Suan Phlu Immigration Bureau, which poses logistical and financial challenges.
Urgent medical care for Indonesians in Phuket was another topic. Pringganu highlighted instances where individuals, like a fisherman suffering from heat stroke, needed treatment but lacked the means to pay.
Bilateral relations
He expressed gratitude to Vachira Phuket Hospital for its policy of charging only 50% of treatment costs in such cases while emphasising the importance of Indonesians carrying adequate health insurance when travelling.
Governor Sophon reiterated Phuket’s commitment to supporting Indonesian nationals by improving communication with the consulate and adhering to international standards for prisoner care. He acknowledged the challenges of providing humanitarian medical care for disadvantaged foreigners and pledged continued collaboration with the consulate to address these issues effectively.
The governor proposed enhancing collaboration with Indonesian officials through video calls or virtual meetings during arrests to ensure transparency and facilitate smoother processes.
Tourism and trade were also on the agenda, with discussions about boosting these sectors between Indonesia and Phuket. The recent introduction of direct flights between Bali and Phuket has led to an increase in Indonesian and Australian visitors.
Pringganu expressed optimism about establishing a Jakarta-Phuket route to further strengthen ties, reported The Phuket News.
The meeting concluded with an exchange of souvenirs and a group photo, symbolising the robust and growing relationship between Phuket and Indonesia. Both parties expressed hope that this collaboration would continue to flourish, benefiting citizens of both nations and enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
