PHUKET, THAILAND – Montawee Hongyok was sworn in as Austria’s new honorary consul in Phuket on 14 October, succeeding Wanida Hongyok and continuing his family’s long-standing role in representing Austrian interests on the island.
Swearing-in at Phuket Country Club
The formal ceremony was held at the Phuket Country Club in Kathu and was personally led by Governor Saransak Srikruanetra. Austria’s Ambassador to Thailand, Wilhelm Donko, and Christina Lehner-Telic, Consul General at the Austrian Embassy in Bangkok, attended alongside senior figures from government, business and the international community, underlining Vienna’s interest in its partnership with the holiday island.
Ambassador Donko presented a ceremonial honour to Wanida Hongyok, who stepped down after 20 years as honorary consul. The event highlighted the consulate’s local profile and the symbolic continuity represented by the Hongyok family.
A two-decade legacy of service
Wanida’s tenure was credited with strengthening ties between Austria and southern Thailand and providing practical support to Austrian citizens. Ambassador Donko paid tribute to her “tireless service” and the many tourists and businesspeople who benefited from her work over the years.
Her departure was marked by warm words and recognition from the diplomatic and local community, who said her efforts had made Vienna’s links with Phuket more tangible to both visitors and residents.
New consul outlines priorities
In his acceptance remarks, Montawee pledged to build on the foundations laid by his predecessor. “I am extremely proud to be entrusted with this role, which is essential for promoting friendship and cooperation between Thailand and Austria,” he said.
He said he would focus on cultural, educational, tourism and economic exchanges, promising to continue Wanida’s work to deepen bilateral ties through practical projects and people-to-people connections.
Local government support
Governor Saransak welcomed Montawee’s appointment and described it as an honour for the province. “On behalf of the people of Phuket, I warmly congratulate Mr Montawee Hongyok. This appointment signals a growing partnership between Phuket and Austria,” he said, adding that the provincial government stood ready to support the consulate’s work in areas such as trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchange.
What it means for Austrians and Phuket
The change of personnel is not expected to affect services for Austrians: about 500 Austrians live in southern Thailand and tens of thousands visit Phuket each year. The consulate will remain in familiar hands and continue to offer established consular assistance and support for bilateral cooperation.
Observers said the handover reinforces a dependable base for Austria-Thailand relations on Phuket and offers continuity at a time when travel and international partnerships are regaining momentum. The Hongyok family’s ongoing role leaves open the question of which new initiatives the incoming consul will pursue to expand economic and cultural ties.