Bangkok: On his inaugural day as the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin addressed pressing issues including forest fires and illegal resource activity, while emphasizing collaboration with the government and public for sustainable environmental restoration.

According to Thai News Agency, Suchart began his duties by honoring sacred objects at the ministry before setting his mission into motion with a focus on implementing policies that benefit the public. He was welcomed by Dr. Raveewan Phuridej, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, along with other executives and staff.

Suchart expressed readiness to immediately tackle the management of natural resources, address environmental challenges, and enhance public quality of life. He highlighted an active approach to solving public-affecting problems, balanced resource management, and adherence to His Majesty the King's initiatives. The urgent issue of controlling forest fires and haze, particularly in the northern region prone to hotspots, was underscored as requiring vigilant monitoring.

Wildfires, driven by both natural and human activities like forest burning and inappropriate resource use, demand collective action for resolution. Collaborative efforts are ongoing with various ministries and agencies across 17 northern provinces, deploying personnel to manage the situation. Despite the challenging work, personnel remain committed to forest protection. Orders have intensified to crack down on illegal activities, such as logging, timber trade, poaching, and wildlife smuggling, with regular arrests reported.

Additionally, the Minister stressed improving government communication, acknowledging past inadequacies. Accelerated awareness campaigns across platforms, especially social media, are needed to engage citizens in policy understanding and problem-solving. In the long term, the Ministry aims for balanced restoration and development of resources, considering conservation alongside economic growth factors like water, investment, and land use. All projects will undergo thorough ecosystem and wildlife impact assessments to avoid future resource harm. Suchart concluded by emphasizing the necessity of joint efforts from government, private sector, and public to sustainably protect and preserve the country's natural resources.