Phuket officials, business figures unite to fight graft

PHUKET: A network of six influential private and government bodies this morning announced its intention to fight corruption throughout Phuket, amid concern over alarming levels of graft across the island.

The network includes members of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, Phuket Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, Federation of Thai Industries Phuket Chapter, Phuket Tourist Association, Thai Hotels Association (Southern Chapter) and Phuket Real Estate Association.

The founding members gathered today at the PCC offices in Phuket Town to launch the network under the banner “Anti-Corruption”, though the group has yet to formally take on a name.

“We are here to show our strong intention to combat corruption in every way,” PCC Deputy Director Charan Sangsarn explained.

“This is the most pressing problem we face, as it affects the work of government officials, which, in turn, leads to bigger problems that strongly affect our economy, society, and national security,” he said.

Mr Charan stressed the importance of cooperation.

“We must all work together to rid society of corruption,” he said.

Mr Charan emphasized key measures the group sees as crucial in the fight against corruption. These included prompt and strict punitive action against offenders; raising the awareness of the problem through education and advertising; public participation in anti-corruption efforts; and a willingness to overcome the problem in the public interest.

A public-relations vehicle has been sent off to deliver the group’s anti-corruption message across Phuket Town.

— Kritsada Mueanhawong