The island of Koh Tao is an inspiring example of how the local community can play a significant role in adopting sustainable tourism practices. Rumluek Assavachin, President of Koh Tao Tourism Association shares insight into the community’s dedication to conservation in an interaction.
Q. How will the “Save Koh Tao” Parade help in promoting tourism in Thailand?
A. The Koh Tao Conservation Parade serves as a symbol of collaboration among the islanders to host the event and declare their shared commitment to conserving and maintaining the beauty, fertility, and environment of Koh Tao. We can sustain the economy and society of Koh Tao by reducing plastic waste and preventing harm to the island’s ecosystems. This parade will reinforce the community’s dedication to conservation and promote new tourism experiences that encourage tourists to become a part of the Koh Tao community.
Q. What are the initiatives taken under the “Save Koh Tao” Parade?
A. The strategy of the parade is to promote internal enthusiasm and encourage active participation from every member involved. The parade aims to raise awareness about the significance of conserving and taking care of the island’s natural resources, both on land and in the sea.
The island is highly vulnerable to land-to-sea impacts, meaning that any activity conducted on the island can have an impact on the marine ecosystem. As such, it is essential to involve everyone on the island, including children, young people, entrepreneurs, and agencies from all sectors, as well as tourists. By engaging in small activities during the parade, everyone can absorb this concept and contribute to the cause.
Q. How Koh Tao Tourism will be benefited from this campaign?
A. The objective is to enhance tourism by emphasising on social and environmental responsibilities. This approach will introduce a fresh image to Thai tourism.
Q. What are your expectations from the Indian market?
A. Previously, Koh Tao had very few tourists from India. However, with an increase in Indian tourists to Thailand, we hope to attract more Indian visitors to Koh Tao, which will help generate more revenue for the island’s tourism industry.
Indian tourists are typically more interested in land-based activities such as visiting Teemal Lakes and exploring the island, rather than diving, which is Koh Tao’s primary tourist activity. Therefore, we plan to organise unique and valuable activities through our “Spotlight” event that cater to Indian tourists and promote responsible tourism. Our resort also focuses on relaxation and sustainable tourism practices, which we hope will impress Indian tourists.
Q. How do you plan to develop tourism along with environmental protection?
A. Koh Tao has prioritised sustainable tourism development while conserving its environmental resources. Our efforts align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the Thai government’s BCG economic policy, and the 3rd National Tourism Development Plan for 2023-2027.
Q. Do you think the tourists will be able to adapt to your initiatives?
A. We believe that tourists, especially those seeking intimate and participatory travel experiences, will embrace our initiative to learn from the island’s community and conservation efforts. This trend of learning and engaging with local wisdom is becoming increasingly popular among young and working-age tourists, as well as families.
Q. Will it increase overall cost and impact the tourism business?
A. Our initiative aims to add value to Koh Tao’s tourism and create pride among its residents while distributing income to all stakeholders. We believe that this will have a positive impact on Koh Tao’s overall business and benefit the tourism industry in Thailand as well.
Q. Do you think the trend of sustainable and green tourism began to develop after the pandemic?
A. We have been discussing and developing sustainable and eco-friendly tourism for over 20 years, but the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for the island community to prioritise sustainability and mutual benefits. Our efforts aim to maintain every occupation and resource on the island and promote sustainable practices. We hope to announce these efforts to the world and encourage travellers to come together after the pandemic.
Q. How do you plan to sustain?
A. Our goal is to cultivate a consciousness of environmental responsibility among everyone on the island. This will be achieved by promoting local love and a positive understanding of sustainable practices. Koh Tao’s tourism has evolved into an environmentally friendly and sustainable destination, thanks to the collective efforts of the island’s residents, who view sustainability as the cornerstone of their livelihood.