Thai PM plans revision of 5.1 billion baht for national art and culture
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday announced plans to revise the substantial sum of 5.1 billion baht (US$145 million), originally designated for the promotion initiatives of national art and culture by the National Soft Power Development Committee (NSPDC). The Thai prime minister expressed the need for judicious use of the funds to maximise efficacy.
PM Srettha’s statements followed the NSPDC’s second meeting, which concluded on November 30. The committee proposed a sizeable budget of 5.164 billion baht to bolster various domains including festival events (1 billion baht/US$28 million), culinary affairs (1 billion baht), tourism (711 million baht/US$20 million), entertainment (545 million baht/US$15.4 million), sports (500 million baht/US$14 million), Thai arts (380 million baht/US$10.7 million), creative design (310 million baht/US$8.7 million), music (144 million baht/US$4 million), and books (69 million baht/US$1.9 million), reported by Bangkok Post.
Despite his affirmation of the committee’s endeavours, the 61 year old Thai prime minister articulated a need for budget revision. Affirming the involvement of pertinent ministries in the revision process, he confirmed that representatives from the Culture Ministry and the Tourism and Sports Ministry would participate in the budget’s reassessment.
The NSPDC is set to review the proposed budget again on December 14 before finalising and submitting their request to the National Soft Power Committee in early January of the following year.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Varawut Silpa-archa, vouched for the committee’s competence, expressing faith in its members. He urged the public to anticipate the results of the committee’s work, which he believes will dispel prevailing criticisms.
In addition to the budget revision, the government plans to establish the Thailand Creative Content Agency (Thacca), aimed at promoting various high-potential industries.
In related news, Thailand’s Soft Power Strategy targets 11 sectors, emphasizing Muay Thai’s global influence. The initiative aims to boost the economy and promote the sport internationally, addressing challenges such as the need for quality trainers. Explore the country’s plan to establish a unified agency and elevate Muay Thai’s presence on the global stage. To read more, click HERE.
