Senate chiefs praise Phuket’s visionary anti-corruption strategy

Phuket took centre stage yesterday as the Senate Committee on Independent Organisations visited the island to evaluate its anti-corruption drive and roadmap for sustainable growth.

The high-profile meeting yesterday, November 26, at Phuket Provincial Hall, led by Police Major General Chatchawan Saengphet, highlighted the province’s ambitious efforts to clean up its act and secure a greener future.

Phuket Vice Governor Ronnarong Thippasiri unveiled the island’s unique challenges, with over 1.25 million residents and a staggering 800,000 tourists.

“Tourism accounts for 92.9% of Phuket’s income, generating more than 380 billion baht annually, ranking it second nationwide after Bangkok.”

Key participants included representatives from government agencies, the private sector, civil society, and the media, including the Phuket Provincial Police and 19 local administrative organisations. Together, they examined risks in procurement and natural resource management, with a shared mission of rooting out corruption.

Vice Governor Ronnarong outlined Phuket’s 20-year vision (2023 to 2042), striving to transform the island into a new economic city based on sustainable development.

“Our strategy combines private sector leadership, government support, and civil society involvement to create a balanced, inclusive economy.”

Pol. Maj. Gen. Chatchawan commended Phuket’s decentralised governance and collaborative approach.

“Phuket is a model of readiness in the fight against corruption and misconduct. Its efforts show promise in sustaining transparency and enhancing confidence among visitors.”

Notably, he called for youth engagement in anti-corruption campaigns, underscoring the importance of long-term cultural change.

With its focus on environmental sustainability, economic equality, and transparent governance, Phuket is positioning itself as a beacon of integrity and innovation in Thailand. However, critics may note the lack of detailed anti-corruption outcomes in the report, reported Phuket News.

On September 11, the Phuket Provincial Governance Committee and the Phuket Chamber of Commerce bagged the prestigious White Space Network Model Award for the fiscal year 2024, in recognition of their tireless work to combat corruption.