Global IT leaders expected to attend Phuket conference

KARON: About 1,000 leaders in the global information technology (IT) industry, including Microsoft Senior Vice President Craig Mundie, are expected to attend a three-day conference in Phuket next month in order to restore international confidence in Phuket’s IT infrastructure after the December 26 tsunami.

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Minister Dr Surapong Suebwonglee was quoted on the Software Industry Promotion Agency (Sipa) website as saying that the conference, to be held from February 17 to 19, would correct misperceptions about the extent of the damage to Phuket’s IT infrastructure to restore confidence among potential tourists and investors.

Dr Surapong said he expects 1,000 experts from both government and private organizations from across Asia, Europe and North America to attend.

Among the many issues to be discussed will be the use of IT in supplying timely warning about impending natural disasters, such as tsunamis, and in helping deal with their aftereffects.

Dr Surapong said this might include the development of computer graphics software to aid in forensics investigations and search-and-rescue operations.

Hilton Arcadia Hotel Public Relations manager Kimberly Sproule today confirmed to the Gazette that Hilton Arcadia would host the event.