Phuket masseuses get hands-on training

PHUKET TOWN: Practitioners of traditional Thai massage are getting some hands-on training this week, thanks to a workshop sponsored by the Department of Skill Development [DSD] and the Royal Spa and Health Club. The training, being held October 2-6 on the 2nd floor of the Big C Supercenter, is intended to improve the skills and professionalism of the island’s masseuses. Surin Chiravisit, Director General of the DSD, told the Gazette, “We organized this event to boost the Thai economy and to support the island’s traditional Thai massage industry.” Perhaps aware that a handful of island massage parlors serve as fronts for less wholesome practices, he added, “We also want to make masseuses feel proud of their profession. Improved skills will increase their earning potential. With good income, masseuses won’t have to consider doing jobs on the side, such as becoming sex workers.” “If they are professional in their outlook, they will not consider doing anything unsuitable which could give not only themselves but the entire industry a bad reputation.” K. Surin said that because physical contact was an inherent part of massage, masseuses needed to dress properly and refrain from behavior that might encourage their male clients to ask for more than the standard course of therapy.