Samui SOS

Islands such as Koh Samui are heavily reliant on the tourism and hospitality industry, and many Thais and non-Thai residents on the island have provided help to those most in need. Asia Pacific Superyachts and Sisters of Samui (SOS) have been working with food providers and those helping to fund purchases along with volunteers who organise transport and facilitate distribution.

Natapanu Nopakun, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the need for unity in Thailand and reiterated that Covid-19 knows no boundaries and affects everyone worldwide regardless of race or nationality.  He applauded the concerted efforts made by many including the German and Swiss food donors on the island of Koh Samui. Asia Pacific Superyachts has lent a helping hand to the ‘Sisters on Samui’ (SOS), who collected food donations and provided food banks to the people of Koh Samui so nobody is left hungry.

The animals on Samui have not been forgotten and volunteers are raising funds and feeding stray dogs living on deserted beaches and jungle outposts. Elephants in sanctuaries who no longer have tourist volunteers providing for them, are receiving help from islanders who are supplying the daily needs of the animals who require an enormous amount of food to survive.

With visiting boats notified of the nation and island lockdown, Asia Pacific Superyachts co-owner based on Koh Samui, Captain Charlie Dwyer, said, “Our remote island, our seas and beaches remain among the most beautiful in the world and Thai people the warmest and most hospitable. We all look forward to seeing our yachting friends at the back end of this crisis but in the meantime we are here to help support our local community”.