Thailand Urges Citizens to Be Friendlier to Foreign Tourists

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Prime Minister of Thailand Srettha Thavisin called on citizens to exhibit kindness and goodwill towards foreign tourists, in the wake of several recent disputes between locals and foreigners. The government expressed worry that the conflicts would tarnish the country’s excellent reputation as a global tourist destination.

Thavisin emphasized that foreign tourists visiting Thailand to travel and relax, being impressed by the country's beauty.

“Please be kind to tourists to help with the government’s policy to promote tourism. The tourism industry is an important tool to stimulate the Thai economy,” said the Thai Prime Minister as quoted from the local news outlet, Nation Thailand.

The government was also concerned that the clashes between tourists and locals could adversely impact tourism. Thailand welcomed 28 million foreign tourists in 2023, marking a substantial increase from the 11 million foreign tourist visits in the previous year. 

However, this figure still fell short of the 40 million foreign tourist visits recorded in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

Despite receiving 28 million foreign tourist visits, Thailand lost its title as the king of tourism in Southeast Asia, which was claimed by Malaysia for receiving nearly 29 million foreign tourist visits throughout 2023. 

This year, Thailand aspired to attract 35 million foreign tourists and generated an income of THB 3.5 trillion, or around Rp1,533 trillion.

VN EXPRESS | KHAOSOD ENGLISH 

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