Bangkok: The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is expediting its inspection of the Jewish Association's building plans and is preparing to issue a letter of objection to ensure the blueprints comply with legal requirements. The BMA also reiterated that only Thai nationals are eligible to apply for permission to establish a cemetery.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, alongside Deputy Governor Mr. Wisanu Trapsompol and representatives from the Department of Public Works and the Department of Public Health, held a press conference at Bangkok City Hall to address the application for permission to construct and modify a building by the Jewish Association of Thailand in Sukhumvit Soi 22. They also discussed the issue related to establishing a cemetery.
Governor Chatchart emphasized that the responsibility for establishing the association lies with the Department of Provincial Administration, while the BMA's role is to oversee building permits, including setback distances, safety measures, and compliance with the Building Control Act.
Deputy Governor Wisanu revealed that the Jewish Association had submitted three applications for permits. The first, for constructing a six-story building with two basement levels, expired without any construction. The second, a notification of building modifications, was cancelled without renewal. The most recent application, submitted in July 2026, was for building modifications under Section 39 bis of the Building Control Act, allowing immediate construction upon notification submission. The local authority has 120 days to review and issue objections.
The BMA is preparing a letter of objection to the building plans, citing non-compliance with building control laws. If corrections are not made within the specified timeframe, the application for building modification will be cancelled.
The permit indicates the building's use as an office and religious facility, potentially classifying it under public, assembly, special buildings, or those with usage restrictions per the Building Control Act. The BMA must thoroughly review the plans, ensuring compliance with setbacks, distances, and safety standards. Upon construction completion, the building must pass inspection and receive a permit before use.
Governor Chatchart noted that the BMA's current inspection focuses on building type and safety standards, not internal activities. However, should future activities cause public nuisance, the BMA will intervene using relevant laws.
Regarding the underground levels, the BMA explained this is common in Bangkok due to land price and height restrictions, with engineers ensuring safety compliance.
The BMA's Public Health Department reiterated the legal requirement that only Thai citizens, whether individuals or legal entities owning or possessing land, can apply to establish a cemetery, excluding foreign nationals.