Disaster Preparedness in the Thai Hospitality Industry

On behalf of Anika Malhotra:

Disaster Preparedness in the Thai Hospitality Industry

One of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history, the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, resulted in the deaths of over 230,000 people in fourteen countries and provoked worldwide humanitarian efforts which led to the donation of over USD$14B in aid. Of these fourteen countries, Thailand was one of those that were hardest hit with an estimated 8,212 death toll.

The two industries that were greatly impacted by this disaster were the fishing and tourism industries. The destruction of industrial infrastructure in coastal areas within the fishing industry had substantial impacts both on regional and national scales, affecting employment in coastal regions and foreign exchange earnings on a national level.

 

With these direct effects of the tsunami, came indirect effects within the hospitality industry. As investigations into the disaster continued, there was speculation that many of the resort hotels directly hit by the tsunami did not alert guests in a timely fashion and that staff were not well equipped to handle such situations. Moreover, regardless of whether tourist’s travel destinations were affected or not, there was a psychological concern and fear for their safety while traveling in areas of this part of the world. The hospitality industry was then hit with numerous cancellations as a result.

 

Tourist’s concerns and trip cancellations created a negative image of the hospitality industry for their lack of disaster preparedness. As the industry began to fear that this negative impact might be long lasting, many hospitality companies joined forces with humanitarian organizations to develop stronger disaster preparedness, recovery, and risk mitigating skills.

 

Addressing issues of crisis management and providing hospitality employees with the necessary skills involved gives these companies a competitive advantage. The first step in these efforts is focused on pre-crisis communication. The thought here is that communicating more effectively and implementing solutions for these situations will help rebuild trust and credibility from the public’s perspective.

 

Rather than a focus on maximizing profits for shareholders, there has been an increased focus on corporate social responsibility (CSR) within the hospitality industry. Although brand reputation and financial factors still play a major role in the decision making process for tourists and potential employees, they are looking more for companies who contribute to more wide-ranging societal goals. These CSR contributions are often in the form of cash donations, work force initiatives, partnerships with NGO’s, and by providing shelter and evacuation. The top 3 hotel companies in the industry that are most contributing to this reform are Hilton, Marriott, and Accor.

 

The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand, The International Federation of Red Cross and Societies, and other NGO’s, as well as those in the Thai private sector formed partnerships with these hospitality companies to train employees and provide assistance and funding in these efforts to rebuild the economy in Thailand. The Tsunami Victim Relief Center was also founded days after the tsunami to help in mobilization efforts. The Royal Thai Government (RTG) has also been greatly praised for their role in providing support to the affected communities. The United Nations Country Team along with bilateral development agencies worked with the RTG to address issues and challenges in the rebuilding effort.

 

The efforts of these organizations in collaboration with hotel companies and educational efforts proved to help tremendously towards rebuilding the hospitality industry in Thailand. Below can be found the Tourism and Earnings Growth in Thailand chart as of one year after the tsunami (2005):

The above chart proves that not even fully into 2005, in Q2, there was shown a significant positive change in the percentage of tourism earnings in one year from

-6.2 to +4.4 in growth.

 

The monsoon season in Thailand in 2011 was a period in which was demonstrated how far humanitarian aid efforts and disaster preparedness have improved since the tsunami disaster in 2004. As a result of the storms during this time, flooding began to spread throughout the Northern, Northeastern, and Central areas of Thailand. These floods resulted in the deaths of 815 people, with a total of 13.6 million people having been affected by the same. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projected a combined loss of USD$825M as a result of reduced international and national tourism, with people having cancelled their trips to the region.

 

Hotels in and around the affected areas in Thailand began to take measures to ensure the safety of their guests, and help with the relief efforts of the surrounding community. The Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok organized a thorough workshop for more than 1,000 of its staff members to drill them in how to manage the flood situation. The Shangri-La Hotel also took precautionary measures during this time by placing sandbags outside of the property in an effort to prevent water from flowing into the property and by storing enough food and medical supplies for their guests and staff to last three days in the case of an emergency situation.

More major hotel companies are doing their part to help with disaster relief in other ways:

 

a)    Marriott International converts points donated by guests into cash for contribution to the IFRC Disaster Relief Emergency Fund.

b)    Hyatt has developed a volunteer outreach program, Hyatt F.O.R.C.E- allowing for employees to provide local and worldwide support on company paid time.

c)     Hilton Honors has implemented a charity titled “Blanket them With Love” to help with the after effects of the 2011 floods in Thailand. “The project will provide 1) immediate relief to victims by giving emergency life packs (includes food and other daily necessities) to evacuees, 2) 700 financially needy families affected by the coming 4 months of cold weather with blankets, so that the most vulnerable targets like young children and elderly will be protected from diseases associated with the cold climate. 3) Help to at least 10 affected homes with repairs after the floods, so that the family go back to safe shelters.”

d)    AirAsiaGo had absorbed the cost of credit card transaction fees on their website for one month from October-November 2011. In addition to this, they worked with local hotels in Bangkok to provide discounts to travelers.

e)    As part of their CSR initiative, Hilton Pattaya donated 100,000 baht to the Rotary Club of Taksin Pattaya to help with relief and rehabilitation projects for the aid of those affected by the floods in Thailand.

In order to help with the rebuilding efforts after the floods, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has implemented a communication center that will keep event organizers updated as to the status of their future events, one such event being the annual Royal Flora Expo.

 

It is made evident to us that the efforts made for disaster preparedness by the hospitality industry in Thailand and throughout the world will help in reducing financial and emotional burdens of many of those affected by such natural disasters as the 2004 tsunami and 2011 floods. Whether it is by partnering with NGO’s or companies within the private sector to help provide employees and their families the skills needed to help mitigate the outcome of such disasters, by providing direct financial support, by sending its employees on volunteer efforts within the community or worldwide, or by providing food and shelter to those affected, the hospitality industry in Thailand is helping to rebuild security and lessen the fears of travelers worldwide.

 

 

25,461 thoughts on “Disaster Preparedness in the Thai Hospitality Industry

  1. uk online gambling sites enthusiasts can enjoy a seamless gaming experience with Funstock Digital, a UK-based retailer specializing in digital gaming products. Offering a wide range of Steam, Uplay, and Origin keys, the platform ensures instant access to popular titles. With competitive pricing, secure transactions, and reliable customer support, Funstock Digital is perfect for gamers seeking convenience and exciting new games.

  2. If some one needs expert view regarding running a blog after that i recommend him/her
    to pay a quick visit this weblog, Keep up the good work.

    Also visit my blog … our website

  3. After exploring a number of the articles on your web page,
    I seriously appreciate your way of writing a blog. I book-marked it to my bookmark website list and will be checking back
    in the near future. Take a look at my web site as well and tell me what you think.

    Here is my web page :: xem ngay truyện sex 2025

  4. As i moreover had written a website having a equivalent topic might get the product with crank out for every visualize.

  5. Togel online kini lebih mudah dan nyaman dengan HPTOTO. Sistem keamanan canggih memastikan transaksi aman, sementara layanan responsif membantu setiap pemain. Dengan diskon tinggi dan peluang menang setiap hari, HPTOTO menjadi situs terpercaya untuk bermain toto togel online dengan pengalaman modern dan efisien.

  6. Great post! I really enjoyed reading this , you explained everything clearly and made it super easy to understand. Thanks for sharing such valuable info! Behance

  7. Fownd Care
    is an AI-powered documentation platform built by physical therapists, for physical therapists. Its flagship product, Notation, helps PTs complete real-time, HIPAA-compliant notes during sessions — reducing after-hours charting, improving accuracy, and giving clinicians more time for patient care.

  8. 1xBet is the preferred platform for Indian bettors, offering an extensive range of betting markets, high odds, and support for major sporting events such as the Women’s Cricket World Cup, Pro Kabaddi League, Premier League, La Liga, Champions League, and more. With a user-friendly interface and seamless mobile app, 1xBet ensures a top-tier betting experience for both beginners and seasoned players. 1xbet promo code india

  9. https://www.tscligala.org/photos/

    Dapatkan akses ke Link Slot Terpercaya dan temukan Slot Gacor Terpercaya dengan peluang maxwin tinggi. Link Gacor Terpercaya dengan tips dan strategi maxwin terbaik dijamin anti rungkad! Bergabung sekarang dan rasakan sensasi jackpot puluhan rupiah.

  10. The Biometric Appointment Kuwait process has become more efficient and user-friendly with the meta portal register system. Through this digital platform, Kuwaiti citizens and residents can easily register, schedule, and manage their biometric appointments online. It eliminates long queues and manual procedures, providing a smooth, secure, and time-saving experience. By using the Meta Portal, users can access real-time updates, verify their details, and ensure compliance with Kuwait’s biometric verification policies. Whether you’re registering for the first time or updating your data, the Meta Portal offers a convenient and reliable solution for all biometric-related services in Kuwait.

  11. Wonderful post however I was wondering if you could write a litte more on this subject?
    I’d be very grateful if you could elaborate a little bit further.
    Kudos!

    Also visit my website – https://www.whlr.us/

  12. Discover the best job agency near me to connect with employers offering full-time, part-time, and remote opportunities. Local recruitment specialists help you build your resume, prepare for interviews, and start your ideal career today.

  13. Wow, oh dear, renowned institutions highlight STEM events, kindling curiosity іn scientific
    professions.

    Eh eh, composed pom ρi pі hor, excellent school delivers tech
    activities, preparing fοr digital upcoming positions.

    Ɗo not taқe lightly lah, combine ɑ gⲟod primary school ρlus arithmetic proficiency іn օrder tօ assure superior PSLE scores ɑnd
    seamless cһanges.

    Besideѕ to school facilities, focus ᥙpon math fօr stоp frequent errors including careless mistakes
    ɑt tests.

    Don’t play play lah, link a gooɗ primary scchool with
    math superiority to ensure hіgh PSLE marks аnd effortless shifts.

    Eh eh, steady pom рі pi, mathematics іs among in the t᧐p subjects during primary school,
    establishing groundwork in Ꭺ-Level calculus.

    Hey hey, Singapore folks, math remains pеrhaps the most crucial primary discipline,
    fostering innovation f᧐r issue-resolving to groundbreaking professions.

    Տt. Anthony’ѕ Primary School fosters а positive community
    supporting trainee success.
    Τhe school develops strong structures tһrough quality education.

    Concord Primary School fosters а favorable environment fоr yooung learners.

    With caring staff, іt constructs ѕelf-confidence and skills.

    Іt’s an exceptional choice for nurturing environments.

    Ꮇy web site; Yuan Ching Secondary School (Bertie)

  14. Enjoying a cheap brunch in Dubai Marina is entirely possible without sacrificing the vibrant atmosphere. Many casual cafes and pubs along the promenade offer budget-friendly packages, often including a satisfying meal and a selection of house beverages. These brunches provide a fantastic way to experience the Marina’s energy and views, proving you don’t need a five-star budget for a delightful and social Saturday afternoon. Brunch in dubai saturday

  15. Hello! I just would like to give you a c clean huge thumbs up for your excellent information you’ve got
    right here on this post. I am returning to your website for
    more soon.

  16. Woodworm treatment solutions by SHASHEL® are trusted by homeowners and organizations globally. Their European-manufactured equipment delivers professional results, saving thousands of wooden properties since 2012. From the Alps to Bora Bora, SHASHEL® provides reliable, long-lasting protection against woodworm damage, safeguarding both homes and commercial buildings.

  17. Thank you for the easy to understand and well written article. It answered many questions and gave me new perspectives. I also admire your website. It is very responsive and has a nice design.

    789bet

  18. Togel 4d dari Merdekatogel menawarkan sensasi bermain modern dengan sistem transparan dan terpercaya. Informasi terbaru selalu disediakan agar pemain merasa aman dan nyaman. Situs ini menonjol berkat tampilan menarik, fitur lengkap, dan dukungan layanan pelanggan yang cepat dan ramah.

  19. Hiya! I know this is kinda off topic nevertheless
    I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in exchanging links or maybe guest authoring a blog article or vice-versa?
    My blog covers a lot of the same topics as yours and
    I believe we could greatly benefit from each other.

    If you’re interested feel free to send me an e-mail.
    I look forward to hearing from you! Excellent blog by the way!

    Here is my homepage :: thưởng thức sex việt nam miễn phí

  20. Terrific work! This is the kind of info that should be shared around the net.

    Disgrace on the search engines for not positioning this submit higher!
    Come on over and talk over with my website .

    Thanks =)

    Stop by my site :: trẻ em khỏa thân

  21. Marketing agency for healthcare companies Rex Marketing & CX helps small to medium businesses grow through SEO, content marketing, web development, and paid advertising. With years of expertise, the team focuses on scalable revenue growth and connecting healthcare businesses with their ideal clients efficiently and effectively.

  22. Great article! That is the type of information that should be shared
    across the net. Disgrace on Google for no longer positioning
    this put up upper! Come on over and visit my web site .
    Thanks =)

    My web page sandal japit merah (Margot)

  23. This article was full of useful insights. Thank you for putting so much thought into your content. Your website design also deserves a compliment t’s both modern and highly readable. I’ll definitely return for more of your helpful posts.
    สมัคร 123bet

  24. 무료 보너스 크레딧으로 더 많이 즐기고 더 많이 승리하세요. 추가 비용 없이 안전하게 게임을 시작할 수 있는 최고의 기회입니다.카지노 꽁머니

  25. オンラインカジノ 入金不要ボーナス は、予算を気にせず安全に遊べるチャンスです。自己ルールを守り、連敗や体調不良・飲酒時のプレイは避けましょう。休憩を挟み、自己排除や入金上限機能を活用することで安心して楽しめます。

  26. UK online gamblings sites provide diverse gaming options for all players, featuring exclusive games, fast withdrawals, and generous bonuses. Betfred stands out with 20+ years of experience and 200 free spins with no wagering requirements. Platforms like Bwin and Betway also offer sports betting and a wide variety of games.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *