TRAT — Following the visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai to Koh Kood on November 9, there has been a noticeable increase in tourist arrivals, even as political attacks regarding Thailand-Cambodia overlapping territorial claims have begun to subside.
Ms. Wipha Boon-yu, Manager of Suea Dam Go (Trat) Company Limited, stated that foreign tourist numbers have significantly increased during this period. Thai tourists, however, have been concerned about social media posts regarding Koh Kood, calling to inquire whether it’s safe to visit. Staff have clarified that there are no concerning situations and no military deployments from either Thailand or Cambodia in the area.
She mentioned that the Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister visited the island’s military base today, and the Interior Minister will visit on Monday. As both are key government figures, operators hope they will help build understanding and restore tourist confidence.
“There is no military confrontation here as falsely shared on social media. We want tourists to feel confident and visit Koh Kood during the year-end period, as there is no fighting or risk in the area,” she said.
A tourist from Bangkok commented that Koh Kood has beautiful nature and pristine waters, expressing no fear about the news, confident that Koh Kood belongs to Thailand, not Cambodia.
Mrs. Boon Yothaphirom, a 68-year-old food vendor, stated that the news has been false, spread through social media sharing, causing confusion among Koh Kood residents. She noted there is no fighting, and they’re circulating images that don’t reflect reality, adding that this isn’t beneficial for anyone.
Mr. Wichit Sukasuyhanon, President of the Trat Tourism Business Association, said that Trat and Koh Kood residents know the island belongs to Thailand, but today’s news is mostly fake and politically motivated. This has overshadowed the truth, resulting in a 30% decrease in Thai tourist bookings for Koh Chang, despite October and November being the tourism season for Trat province and its islands.
However, Mr. Attaphol Klintap, Manager of Boonsiri Ferry Company, reported that Thai tourist numbers today are higher than usual weeks due to merit-making ceremonies and holidays. For foreign tourists, this high season is normal, with many European and Scandinavian visitors expected through late 2024 and early 2025.
Mr. Attaphol added that the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Trat office has been promoting tourism on Koh Kood and Koh Mak through special tour packages, which has helped maintain tourist confidence and increased visitors to both islands.
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