Bangkok: Suradech Yasawat, former deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, has publicly endorsed Deputy Prime Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn's proposal to establish a Disneyland-style theme park in Thailand.

According to Thai News Agency, Suradech supports expanding the concept to a full-scale Disney World, emphasizing the unique opportunity to create a second such destination globally, as the only existing Disney World is in Florida, USA.

Drawing from his previous experience as a senator and chair of the Senate's Tourism Committee, Suradech highlighted the potential of the Thung Kula Rong Hai area, which spans five northeastern provinces: Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Surin, and Sisaket. He noted that past studies have confirmed the area's suitability for this ambitious project. The proposed Disney World would be an eco-friendly, family-oriented attraction devoid of casinos and smoking, aiming to boost tourism in the region and attract international investment.

Suradech envisions a comprehensive "Big Entertainment City" encompassing various amenities, including a theme park, sports facilities, a concert hall, numerous hotels and resorts, golf courses, restaurants, and wellness centers. He believes such development could significantly increase tourism revenue and create approximately 80,000 high-paying jobs, similar to those in the United States. The project aligns with his vision of enhancing Thailand's national income through tourism, investment, and exports.

He recounted his efforts in 2001 when he led a delegation to discuss the project with Disney World's former president in Orlando, Florida. The discussions outlined a potential investment agreement requiring a 50% stake from the host government to ensure project continuity. Suradech urged the government to negotiate with Disney World to make this vision a reality in Thailand, asserting that it would offer a superior alternative to previously cancelled entertainment projects, thanks to its family-friendly policies.

Suradech concluded by expressing his willingness to collaborate with government officials to share his extensive research and insights, emphasizing the national benefits of the project irrespective of political affiliations.