PATA hails rapid response to quake

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) President and CEO Peter de Jong has praised authorities in Sri Lanka, India, Thailand and Indonesia for quickly warning of the possibility of a tsunami after an 8.7 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Northwest Sumatra, March 28.

He also expressed the Association's relief that there was only minimal change in wave patterns at sea and that few areas outside Nias Island suffered structural damage. The CEO, PATA sent condolences to the people of Nias Island and nearby islands who have lost loved ones as a result of the quake. "This is a cruel blow to people who have suffered enough, just as they were rebuilding their communities after the December 26 quake and tsunami," he said.

"It is important that the latest setback does not disrupt the physical and psychological reconstruction process underway in travel-related communities in the region." Jong added that it is imperative that travellers continue with their travel plans and support destinations in Southeast Asia.

"The money they spend and the hearts they touch mean a lot for people who are currently rebuilding their lives," he said.