Bangkok: Surasak Panjaroenvorakul, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation and Deputy Leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, expressed his support for the idea of separating the Ministry of Sports to enhance development in the sports sector. He emphasized that the effectiveness of a ministry is more crucial than its size. Surasak also mentioned that he has not decided which ministry he will head, as the decision will depend on the composition of the cabinet following the Prime Minister's vote.
According to Thai News Agency, Surasak commented on the proposal to merge the Ministry of Tourism with the Ministry of Culture, leaving the Ministry of Sports as a standalone entity. He agreed with the separation, noting that culture and tourism have overlapping scopes, with many historical sites already serving as tourist attractions. He believes that an independent Ministry of Sports would allow for a focused approach to sports development.
Surasak further explained that a small ministry with high potential could operate more effectively than a larger one with limited capacity. He emphasized that efficiency is paramount in a ministry's operations.
When questioned about his role in the party, Surasak stated that no decisions have been finalized. He reiterated the statement of Anutin Charnvirakul, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, that they must wait for the Prime Minister's vote before forming the cabinet. Surasak humorously added that he is more familiar with playing marbles and jump rope than sports, though he is currently following Ayutthaya United football club.