Ayutthaya: Mr. Surasak Panjaroenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports and a prominent figure in Ayutthaya Province for the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed concerns following the arrest of the former abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan on embezzlement charges. Surasak expressed confidence that the incident will not impact the faith of Buddhists or deter tourists, as they can discern between truth and falsehood.

According to Thai News Agency, Surasak reassured that the long-standing history and cultural significance of Wat Phutthaisawan, highlighted by royal monuments, a sacred reclining Buddha image, and its notable architecture along the Chao Phraya River, will continue to attract visitors. He emphasized that the temple's sacredness remains intact, and the actions of the individual involved do not reflect the teachings of Buddhism, which do not condone such behavior.

When questioned about the potential impact on tourism and faith in historical sites in Ayutthaya Province, Surasak noted that similar incidents have occurred in the Buddhist community before. He observed that the majority of visitors to Wat Phutthaisawan are not primarily interested in the individual involved but are drawn to the temple's spiritual and historical aspects. Surasak believes that the faith of tourists and residents in Ayutthaya's sacred sites will remain unshaken, and visits to the province will continue as usual.