APEC 2003 Thailand:
Sailors to become VIP tuk-tuk drivers

The simplest way to get a close look at those important world leaders such as US President George W Bush during the 2003 Apec summit in Thailand, is to drive them around in a Thai tuk-tuk, not just any ordinary noise producing Bangkok tuk-tuk, but special electric version called "Chai".

"I want to be a the tuk-tuk driver of George Bush", said Royal Thai Navy Petty Officer Chukiart Phomyukol. All of the chosen Navy officers want to be the chauffeur of President George Bush, as he is the head of the major superpower.

The three-wheel electronic tuk-tuk, named "Chai" is produced by Thailand's local companies Sikhorn and Tiger and will be used to transport the Apec leaders for the distance of 100 meters, namely from their dining table to the Royal Barge Procession viewing platform on October 20 2003.

Chukiart, aged 29, is one of 30 Navy staff who have passed the special selection process. The 30 selected Navy officers will have to undergo another selection and testing round, in which the final 21 tuk-tuk drivers will be chosen. Those officers will be tested for their tuk-tuk driving ability and their English language skills, said Royal Thai Navy Commander Phaitoon Phanyasin.

Commander Phaitoon further explained that the selected drivers had received extended training on tuk-tuk driving techniques, body discipline, knowledge of the meaning and goal of the Bangkok 2003 Apec summit and basic English language training.