Koh Samui Municipality has launched a new training program for public transport operators, led by Deputy Mayor Mr. Amnat Chotchuang.
This initiative, starting August 28, 2025, aims to significantly boost tourist safety and ensure a secure experience for all visitors to our beautiful island.
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Overview of the Training Program
On August 28, 2025, the Koh Samui Municipality, in collaboration with the Koh Samui Tourist Police Station, inaugurated a specialized training program aimed at enhancing the public transportation network’s ability to assist tourists. The event took place at the Chaweng Conference Room within Koh Samui Interdisciplinary College, located in the Koh Samui District of Surat Thani Province. Mr. Amnat Chotchuang, Deputy Mayor of Koh Samui Municipality, led the opening ceremony, highlighting the municipality’s commitment to strengthening tourist support services.
Objectives of the Initiative
The primary objectives of the training were to increase the skills and awareness of public vehicle (taxi) operators and to foster a more secure and supportive environment for visitors to Koh Samui. The program aims to:
- Equip drivers with the necessary knowledge to assist tourists effectively.
- Enhance the capacity for coordinated support between transportation providers and tourist police.
- Build confidence in the safety and reliability of Koh Samui’s transportation network for all visitors.
- Encourage active volunteering within the community to facilitate tourist experiences and ensure safety.
Components of the Training
The training program featured a combination of theoretical and practical sessions. Key topics included:
- Communication and customer service skills tailored to international guests.
- Guidelines for responding to emergencies and collaborating with local authorities.
- Procedures for assisting tourists with directions, local information, and basic problem-solving.
- Volunteer protocols for community members participating in tourism support roles.
Collaboration Between Authorities and Community
The initiative is a result of a partnership between the Koh Samui Municipality, Tourist Police Station 5 (Division 2, Tourist Police Division 3), and other local networks. These collaborations are essential for enhancing overall safety standards and ensuring that the needs of tourists are met efficiently. The program also emphasizes the importance of ongoing cooperation between taxi operators, police, and volunteers.
Broader Impact on Tourism
By investing in the knowledge and preparedness of public transport providers and community volunteers, Koh Samui aims to solidify its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. Such proactive measures are vital for increasing tourist satisfaction, fostering repeat visits, and supporting the sustainable growth of the local tourism industry.
Additional Measures and Future Plans
As part of its commitment to continuous improvement, the municipality plans to expand similar training initiatives to other sectors involved in tourism, including accommodation providers and local businesses. Feedback from participants and tourists will be used to adapt and refine future training modules, ensuring that the evolving needs of visitors to Koh Samui are consistently met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the new public transportation training initiative on Koh Samui?
The training program, led by Deputy Mayor Mr. Amnat Chotchuang, is designed to improve the skills and awareness of public transport (taxi) operators. Its main objectives are to boost tourist safety, enhance customer service, foster cooperation with tourist police, and ensure a secure and welcoming experience for all visitors to Koh Samui.
What topics and skills are included in the training for public transport operators?
The program covers both theoretical and practical sessions, focusing on communication and customer service for international guests, emergency response and collaboration with authorities, assistance with directions and local information, and volunteer protocols for community support roles.
How does this initiative benefit tourism and the local community on Koh Samui?
By raising the standards of safety and assistance available to tourists, the training builds confidence in Koh Samui’s transportation network, encourages volunteer participation, enhances visitor satisfaction, and supports sustainable tourism growth. The municipality also plans to extend similar training to other sectors in the future based on feedback and evolving needs.
