SONGKHLA, Thailand – Hat Yai has announced plans to position itself as a medical and wellness hub in the southern region. According to Sitthisak Tonmongkol, secretary-general of the Hat Yai Economic Forum (HEF), several development campaigns are in the pipeline to transform the city. One key project is expected to create a more walkable city, enabling residents and visitors to easily access commercial areas and public spaces on foot, reducing traffic and private vehicle use.
The city also plans to renovate less developed areas with a “smart city” concept, focusing on Khlongtoei Canal. The waterway will be cleaned, and both sides will feature walking streets and activity spaces, creating a new attraction. Hat Yai has also embraced UNESCO’s “learning city” model, launching the Hat Yai Living Museum project in its old commercial area to highlight the city’s culture and history through walking tours and interactive experiences.
In addition, Hat Yai is advancing plans to acquire land to construct a second hospital serving patients from seven southern provinces. Built on 100 rai of donated land, the hospital will follow a “hospital-oriented development” model. (NNT)
