Koh phangan: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with residents of Koh Phangan to announce plans for reorganizing the island's beaches and to pledge that foreigners will not be allowed to take jobs from Thais or seize public land. He emphasized that land allocation must benefit local people and warned that if Koh Phangan remains unstable, it would be considered a failure of the government's efforts.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, addressed the public at Koh Phangan School at 3:00 PM. He outlined policy guidelines to local government agencies, highlighting the importance of addressing the severe problems faced by residents. While acknowledging the financial benefits brought by foreign tourists, he stressed that their spending should be legitimate and not exploit local resources. He called for preserving the environment and maintaining the beaches, urging the community to help monitor and protect these areas, while promising zoning efforts to prevent environmental damage.
The Prime Minister's visit was part of an initiative to tackle illegal activities affecting Koh Phangan's residents. He reiterated the government's commitment to restoring order, ensuring fair opportunities, and enhancing the island's appeal as a tourist destination. Anutin stated that tourists should visit with good intentions, focusing on relaxation rather than taking away local livelihoods. He urged for cooperation in maintaining the beaches as public property and emphasized that any instability would reflect a failure in governance.
Anutin also requested that residents report any illegal activities to authorities, assuring them of support from local MPs, including Pipit Rattanarak from the Bhumjaithai Party. He highlighted the party's dedication to addressing the hardships faced by Koh Phangan and Koh Samui residents.
The Prime Minister affirmed the government's focus on improving infrastructure, such as water resources and electricity systems, to create income opportunities and make Koh Phangan a self-sustaining community. Recalling his previous visits as Minister of Public Health, he noted the island's large population and comprehensive facilities, promising further development without industrial pollution.
Anutin concluded by expressing his commitment to improving residents' lives, ensuring that his promises would be fulfilled. His visit ended with villagers presenting him with flowers and souvenirs, including prayer beads.