Interview With Phuket Tuk-tuk Mafia Boss

[jacobbells]

Interview with the idiot tuk-tuk mafia boss trying to justify fixed 400 baht rides for the 8km ride from Patong to Karon. Not as bad as his predecesor who once boasted that even the head of Phuket police couldn't touch him.

Deserves an email of complaint to the TAT / Ministry of Tourism <[email protected]>,

Here's the interview with link

Pathumwan. com interview with tuk-tuk mafia boss

Phuket Tuk-tuk Mafia Boss Asks "Aren't you afraid of me?"

''SO YOU want to talk to me?'' the deep voice on the other end of the telephone said. ''Aren't you afraid of me? I am the tuk-tuk Mafia.''

Some conversations get off to a bad start. So we made our way to the headquarters of the Karon Tuk-tuk Association with some trepidation.

What would the Mafia chief be like? Would he be surrounded by a gang of black shirts, polishing their guns, ready for the next professional ''hit''?

Would they be sharing a pizza, and talking about disposing of rival mafioso?

Actually, Porntep Chamkawn had on a bright check shirt and he even smiled quite a few times as we talked.

He has a masters degree in political science and has been president of the KT for a year, trying to introduce some changes.

Mafia? We figure he was joking. Not many media people call asking for an interview.

As it turned out, we learned a lot. Minivans, buses, taxis and other forms of tourist transport are all part of the association's 511 vehicles.

''Only local people in the Karon area can become members,'' Khun Porntep told Phuketwan. ''We have a history going back before there was even a road between Karon and Patong.''

The KT runs services at Karon, Kata and Kata Noi, and some changes are already evident under Khun Porntep's leadership.

Yellow KT signs and yellow paint on the roadway now mark 54 spots where tuk-tuks and other members can park. People who want tuk-tuks have to go to those signs to find transport.

Tuk-tuk drivers from other parts of Phuket are not permitted to make pickups in the Karon district, Khun Porntep said, and that can at times lead to harsh words with outside tuk-tuk drivers.

If a driver happens to offend not once, but twice, then three times, Khun Porntep said: ''Please don't ask what happens next.''

Fiercely protective of the local community, Khun Porntep said that fares for passengers were consistent with the high cost of tuk-tuk vehicles.

''Even an old tuk-tuk will cost 70,000 baht and a new one will carry a price tag of 1.2 million baht,'' he said. ''They have to be imported from Japan.''

A driver needs to have cash to pay for one, he said.

Khun Porntep said the tuk-tuk drivers used to see the big Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort as less than friendly towards tuk-tuks.

But after talking to the owner, Maitree Narukatpichai, Khun Porntep's view had changed.

Resorts had agreed on the new parking system, and resorts in the area can now call in tuk-tuks or other, larger vehicles as required, from the designated parking bays.

Politeness courses are now planned for KT members, along with more emphasis on service and the safety of passengers.

Times are tough for tuk-tuks, which means more time for planning . . . and for down-time football matches at Karon sports stadium.

''We want people to be satisfied with our service,'' Khun Porntep said. ''If someone leaves something behind in a tuk-tuk, they can be sure they will get it back.''

The new ideas now being introduced in Karon won't necessarily be seen in other parts of the island, he added.

''We are trying to get our area working well, but we cannot speak for others.

''I am not the Mafia, but I am trying to help the local community make sure there are jobs for the next generation.

''People say unkind things about tuk-tuk drivers. I have to say we welcome complaints because we need to improve.

http://phuketwan.com/tourism/phuket-tuk-tu...t-afraid-11283/

''Please let me know if there are incidents that make tourists unhappy.''

He would like to fix fares, but that was no easy task. The price to Patong from Karon should be around 400 baht, depending on the precise pickup and destination.

He does not believe meters are an answer, but the whole issue of fares will eventually be thoroughly examined.

''We have it on our list of things to do,'' he said. ''Parking is now sorted, and we have a system going that works for drivers and resorts.''

People often complain about tuk-tuk drivers, but Khun Porntep said Phuket's tourists these days were not necessarily top-shelf, either.

''I have often taken a fare to Patong then had them flee without paying, or paying less than the right fare, in Soi Bangla,'' he said.

''That's hardly fair.''

Edited July 2, 2009 by jacobbells

[Datsun240Z]

(1) ''We want people to be satisfied with our service,'' Khun Porntep said. ''If someone leaves something behind in a tuk-tuk, they can be sure they will get it back.''

(2) ''We are trying to get our area working well, but we cannot speak for others.

(3) ''I am not the Mafia, but I am trying to help the local community make sure there are jobs for the next generation.

(4) ''People say unkind things about tuk-tuk drivers. I have to say we welcome complaints because we need to improve.

(5) ''Please let me know if there are incidents that make tourists unhappy.''

(6) ''We have it on our list of things to do,'' he said. ''Parking is now sorted, and we have a system going that works for drivers and resorts.''

(7) People often complain about tuk-tuk drivers, but Khun Porntep said Phuket's tourists these days were not necessarily top-shelf, either.

(8) ''I have often taken a fare to Patong then had them flee without paying, or paying less than the right fare, in Soi Bangla,'' he said.

(9) ''That's hardly fair.''

Now the big question: Does he all really mean that, or does he just say this to get more $ ?

[huggybear]

(1) ''We want people to be satisfied with our service,'' Khun Porntep said. ''If someone leaves something behind in a tuk-tuk, they can be sure they will get it back.''

(2) ''We are trying to get our area working well, but we cannot speak for others.

(3) ''I am not the Mafia, but I am trying to help the local community make sure there are jobs for the next generation.

(4) ''People say unkind things about tuk-tuk drivers. I have to say we welcome complaints because we need to improve.

(5) ''Please let me know if there are incidents that make tourists unhappy.''

(6) ''We have it on our list of things to do,'' he said. ''Parking is now sorted, and we have a system going that works for drivers and resorts.''

(7) People often complain about tuk-tuk drivers, but Khun Porntep said Phuket's tourists these days were not necessarily top-shelf, either.

(8) ''I have often taken a fare to Patong then had them flee without paying, or paying less than the right fare, in Soi Bangla,'' he said.

(9) ''That's hardly fair.''

Now the big question: Does he all really mean that, or does he just say this to get more $ ?

Classic............blame the bad attitudes and rudeness of the drunken tuk-tuk drivers on the low life tourists.

Hmmmmm.....seems in my business classes laying blame on the paying customer was left out......

[fred2007]

A new tuk tuk cost 1.2 million baht and it has to be made in Japan? What a load of bull I can buy a new car for that and I always thought tuk tuk's are an Thai icon

[flightcrew1]

A new tuk tuk cost 1.2 million baht and it has to be made in Japan? What a load of bull I can buy a new car for that and I always thought tuk tuk's are an Thai icon

As far as I know, Tuk Tuks as we know them in Bangkok are not used in Phuket, but are converted Daihatsu vans, which in Bangkok are called Songtows. this is probably what he means cost 1.2 million new.

[Serpico]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

[saintofsilence]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I agree with you its so corrupt I stay away also other places in Thailand seem to cope with lower prices why cant Phuket , because they want to charge prices that Japanese are willing to pay.

[maichai40]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

This is a bit exaggerate, not coming tp Phuket because of the tuk-tuk mafia...you can rent a bike all day from 150 bahta and a car from 600 baht. Live here 3 years and never took a tuk-tuk, nobody force you to go with them.

[saintofsilence]

''Please let me know if there are incidents that make tourists unhappy.'' what a joke

With his masters degree I am sure he can use google

[TheWalkingMan]

A new tuk tuk cost 1.2 million baht and it has to be made in Japan? What a load of bull I can buy a new car for that and I always thought tuk tuk's are an Thai icon

I saw a tuk tuk zipping through the streets of Tokyo once. It was very quick and moved like a Jack Rabbit. I was surprised.

TheWalkingMan

[bangkokrick]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I don't know why people get so hung up over the tuk tuk's. Hire a car for 900 Baht a day and travel to anywhere you like in Phuket. This is a hassle free, effective and affordable option.

Cheers, Rick

[saintofsilence]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I don't know why people get so hung up over the tuk tuk's. Hire a car for 900 Baht a day and travel to anywhere you like in Phuket. This is a hassle free, effective and affordable option.

Cheers, Rick

Not every person has a motorbike or car licence and I would suggest a large percentage would no want to hire a bike or car while on holiday.

[Datsun240Z]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I don't know why people get so hung up over the tuk tuk's. Hire a car for 900 Baht a day and travel to anywhere you like in Phuket. This is a hassle free, effective and affordable option.

Cheers, Rick

Not every person has a motorbike or car licence and I would suggest a large percentage would no want to hire a bike or car while on holiday.

That's right. Remember most folks just land in Phuket, go off to the beach, spend 2 weeks and go back to their home countries. They not think of that.

[bangkokrick]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I don't know why people get so hung up over the tuk tuk's. Hire a car for 900 Baht a day and travel to anywhere you like in Phuket. This is a hassle free, effective and affordable option.

Cheers, Rick

Not every person has a motorbike or car licence and I would suggest a large percentage would no want to hire a bike or car while on holiday.

The majority of tourists could get an International driving permit, so as to allow them to drive in Thailand and I would suggest that a large number of tourists would prefer to drive rather than get ripped off by the Tuk tuk drivers. Hey each to their own, it worked well for me and the family and we went to places that we otherwise would not have gone.

Cheers, Rick

[TexasRanger]

''Aren't you afraid of me? I am the tuk-tuk Mafia.''

What a tool!

[bangkokrick]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I don't know why people get so hung up over the tuk tuk's. Hire a car for 900 Baht a day and travel to anywhere you like in Phuket. This is a hassle free, effective and affordable option.

Cheers, Rick

Not every person has a motorbike or car licence and I would suggest a large percentage would no want to hire a bike or car while on holiday.

That's right. Remember most folks just land in Phuket, go off to the beach, spend 2 weeks and go back to their home countries. They not think of that.

If that is the case, which I strongly doubt, then they should get a hotel near the beach then there is no need for transport. A lot of people like to try different beaches/locations hence the recommendation for car hire.

Example. Karon to Patong return 800 Baht. Car hire 900 Baht and you are free to go where ever. Seems like a no brainer to me.

Cheers, Rick

Cheers, Rick

[torrenova]

The answer to a rip off public transport is not to hire a car yourself ! Those suggesting that should be ashamed.

Throughout Thailand the obvious answer is the taxi meter, with a starting fare set at a decent level (with mileage alowance). The welfare of drivers and their income would be regulated by the number of drivers required to service the community. Too many drivers and their income falls, too few and new entrants come to the market. The answer is not to have too many taxis (of sorts) and charge a rip off price to give them all an income.

There should be deregulation with a set system but that will never happen when you have the "mafia" creaming off and setting the "rules".

[bangkokrick]

The answer to a rip off public transport is not to hire a car yourself ! Those suggesting that should be ashamed.

Throughout Thailand the obvious answer is the taxi meter, with a starting fare set at a decent level (with mileage alowance). The welfare of drivers and their income would be regulated by the number of drivers required to service the community. Too many drivers and their income falls, too few and new entrants come to the market. The answer is not to have too many taxis (of sorts) and charge a rip off price to give them all an income.

There should be deregulation with a set system but that will never happen when you have the "mafia" creaming off and setting the "rules".

Have you taken your tablets today? Why the hel_l should I be ashamed of hiring a car??? Get real the tuk tuk drivers will always be there and they will always rip tourists off. My solution is to hire a car just like millions of people do every week worldwide. If you think the problem is going to go away then dream on.

Cheers, Rick

[ScubaBuddha]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

This is a bit exaggerate, not coming tp Phuket because of the tuk-tuk mafia...you can rent a bike all day from 150 bahta and a car from 600 baht. Live here 3 years and never took a tuk-tuk, nobody force you to go with them.

Same here, however we still have to listen to their constant touts, especially in Patong, which I know this guy isn't Patong mafia, but same same. It fuc_king annoying as hel_l.

[Serpico]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I don't know why people get so hung up over the tuk tuk's. Hire a car for 900 Baht a day and travel to anywhere you like in Phuket. This is a hassle free, effective and affordable option.

Cheers, Rick

It's a scam on tourists Rick. A rip off.

Otherwise, they would have a decent taxi service.

I traveled to 30 countries and don't rent cars. Last time I rented a bike in Thailand, the shop tried to claim damages and held my passport ransom.(happens all the time with renting cars, jet skis etc)

Like I said, I don't go there any longer.

Being drivin around in the back of an unsafe truck by disrespectful, overcharging, scamming punks is something I stopped doing.

Screw them.

.

Edited July 2, 2009 by Serpico

[Serpico]

" If you think the problem is going to go away then dream on.

Cheers, Rick"

I expect the problem to stay and the tourists to go away. Ooops, that is happening now. Mi ben ri.

[SICA]

Let's face it, these are some of the problems Phuket faces with tourist travel,

1, Taxi's and tuk tuk's should be metered, fairly, and the drivers get tips for their excellent service, joyfulness, charming English and careful driving.

2, not everybody has an international driving licence but this isn't a problem in Thailand!

3, People on holiday want to drink alcohol so cannot always get behind the wheel of their own car

4, A few tourists are young and can't drive

5, Bikes and motorbikes can be unsafe because of poor servicing and the bad taxi drivers and the drunk drivers, not to mention poor roads and even worse road signs

6, if it's raining a bike or motorbike isn't what you want

7, I wouldn't fancy picking up a car at the airport and then hunting for my little B&B in Patong on my first, second or any trip top Phuket actually!

8, You return the car and then have to haggle with the guy you rent it from about the 'damage' you caused

9, An improved or even FREE bus service on the west coast might be a good idea

10, Remove the tag 'Mafia' from organisations like this!

There are problems like this all over Thailand but if the country wants tourists back they need to be seen to be something. I know, they should organise a big shopping contest in BKK! Yeah, that'll have tourists back in their millions!!

[bangkokrick]

A thug.

Bad for tourism. Like he cares.

Probably one of the people looting valuables from the tsunami victims.

I don't go to Phukett and his transport business is the sole reason.

I don't know why people get so hung up over the tuk tuk's. Hire a car for 900 Baht a day and travel to anywhere you like in Phuket. This is a hassle free, effective and affordable option.

Cheers, Rick

It's a scam on tourists Rick. A rip off.

Otherwise, they would have a decent taxi service.

I traveled to 30 countries and don't rent cars. Last time I rented a bike in Thailand, the shop tried to claim damages and held my passport ransom.(happens all the time with renting cars, jet skis etc)

Like I said, I don't go there any longer.

Being drivin around in the back of an unsafe truck by disrespectful, overcharging, scamming punks is something I stopped doing.

Screw them.

.

This is exactly why I use an alternative form of transport. I like Phuket, so I won't cut my nose off to spite my face.

Cheers, Rick

[bangkokrick]

" If you think the problem is going to go away then dream on.

Cheers, Rick"

I expect the problem to stay and the tourists to go away. Ooops, that is happening now. Mi ben ri.

Thats wishful thinking on your behalf. The economic downturn is to blame as it is affecting tourism worldwide. People will always go to Phuket and the tuk tuk drivers will always rip them off. Anyway I will stick to hiring cars.

Cheers, Rick

[losworld]

The guy sounds fairly reasonable. I think they could go a long way going with a flat 10 u.s. fee instead of the 400 baht. However, 400 baht may be high but it is not that outrageous for a major tourist destination particularly if there is more than one person in the vehicle.

I simply rent a motorbike when I am in Phuket. I really don't use the Tuk Tuks.

[saintofsilence]

None of this will change until corruption is stopped in Thailand it will just get worst.

The only way to change it is for the tourists to vote with their wallets and not give your money to theses mafia setups.

[ThaiEye]

Prices in Phuket bend both ways - while tuk-tuks maybe rather expensive, car and motorbike hire is extremely cheap compared to other countries in SEA.

By the way, maybe a mountain bike for hire business would do a roaring trade.

Edited July 3, 2009 by ThaiEye

[JiveTalker]

The fact that people like this legally hold positions of responsibilty is the biggest problem in this country.

I wonder how many less accidents there would be on the roads in Phuket if people could use reasonably priced metered taxis to get about rather than having a few drinks and driving home? Phuket needs metered taxis and decent buses.

[JiveTalker]

Prices in Phuket bend both ways - while tuk-tuks maybe rather expensive, car and motorbike hire is extremely cheap compared to other countries in SEA.

By the way, maybe a mountain bike for hire business would do a roaring trade.

Not the point though, is it. Everywhere else in Thailand it's easy to find cheap metered taxis. These guys are not letting us have this option in Phuket. It's a problem.

[Datsun240Z]

I heared the cat of the owner of the Tuk Tuk Mafia is not a cutie either