BANGKOK, 26 May 2015 – Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha was concerned over the ongoing drought disaster nationwide and has ordered relevant authorities to give appropriate advice to farmers operating in and out of irrigation zones, deputy government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd revealed after the cabinet meeting.
He cited the prime minister as suggesting to all relevant units to use the drought-hit areas designated by by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation and the Meteorological Department as information base to design water management, rainmaking process and prepare rain-storing space that is most suitable to each zone.
In term of economic issues, Gen Prayut told the cabinet meeting that he had met with chambers of commerce and all of them gave confidence in the government’s capacity to move the economy forward. In return, he called for their cooperation in taking care of farmers and supply chains regardless their size of business to help the government achieve the economic success.
In terms of tourism, Gen Prayut expressed his concern over lack of tourist guides and foreign language interpreters amidst the rapidly growing tourism in Thailand. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports have been ordered to produce such experts with deep knowledge in foreign languages, Thai culture and tourist attractions, in particular, ancient and historic sites which are receiving more popularity among tourists.
The Prime Minister also pleaded Thai people not to criticize foreign tourists on social media. Thai people, as host, should adjust themselves to foreign tourists who know little about Thai culture. Tourist manuals might be a good way to solve cultural-shocks. He stressed that Thais must try not to disappoint tourists which may lead to a decreasing number of tourists.
“For cleanliness of toilets, the Prime Minister had earlier ordered the setting up of ad-hoc teams to randomly inspect toilets at tourist attractions, oil stations and restaurants. The teams could comprise either officials or volunteers. Income from local tourism should be allocated to solve these problems systematically,” said Maj-Gen Sansern.
Gen Prayut also ordered the Minister of Culture to discuss with Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam the drafting of a bill to provide support to artists especially national artists who have done great contribution to the country. The support might include financial subsidy.
