Phuket Airport responds: Thais embarrassed foreigners by using a photo of Singapore to promote tourism—not a mistake, but intentional?!

*Phuket Airport responds: Thais embarrassed foreigners by using a photo of Singapore to promote tourism—not a mistake, but intentional?! — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.*

Published: 2026-03-15 05:26 UTC Event date: developing

Phuket Airport Responds to Use of Singapore Photo in Tourism Promotion

Phuket International Airport has issued an official response after a promotional image displayed inside the airport, intended to highlight local tourism, was revealed to depict a location in Singapore rather than Phuket. The incident came to light on December 16, 2023, when the Facebook page “EJeeJoom Phuket” posted a photo showing the Peranakan Houses on 287 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore, being used as part of the airport’s tourism campaign. The photo sparked confusion among foreign tourists and led to widespread discussion on social media.

Social Media Uproar Over Peranakan Houses Image

The issue gained traction after a tourist, upon arriving at Phuket International Airport, inquired about the location featured in the promotional display, only to discover it was not in Phuket but in Singapore. The Facebook post, which included local dialect commentary expressing embarrassment, quickly went viral. Many users questioned why authentic Sino-Portuguese architecture from Phuket, such as the historic shophouses on Thalang and Dibuk Roads, was not featured instead. The post highlighted the abundance of unique heritage buildings in Phuket that could have been used for local tourism promotion.

Airport Clarifies Intent Behind Image Selection

In response to the controversy, Phuket International Airport issued a statement via its official Facebook page, Phuket International Airport – HKT. The airport clarified that the image of the Singaporean Peranakan Houses was intentionally included as part of a broader display showcasing Sino-Portuguese architecture. According to the airport, the architectural style is common to both Singapore and Phuket, and the intent was to create an atmosphere reflecting this shared heritage within the domestic terminal. However, the airport acknowledged that the display may have caused confusion and apologized for any misunderstanding, promising to review and improve its promotional materials.

Next Steps for Phuket Tourism Promotion

Phuket International Airport emphasized its ongoing commitment to promoting the province’s tourism image in a sustainable manner. The airport stated it would take steps to prevent similar confusion in the future and ensure that future displays accurately represent Phuket’s unique attractions. This incident has highlighted the importance of careful curation in tourism marketing, especially in a region with rich local heritage. Observers will be watching to see how Phuket International Airport updates its promotional materials to better showcase the island’s distinctive architecture and culture.

Source: https://www.sanook.com/news/9672218/