The opening ceremony, held at Saphan Hin on Friday (Jan 17), was presided over by Phuket Town Deputy Mayor Ornpilai Trakulpariphan.
The event was attended by Wuttichai Bamrungrat, of the Phuket branch of the Department of Local Administration, joined by Phuket City Municipality council members and representatives from other government offices on the island.
The long-standing tradition encourages Phuket Town residents, particularly those of Thai-Chinese descent, to clean their homes and dispose of unwanted items, such as damaged furniture and household goods.
Residents are invited to leave these items ‒ excluding food waste and tree branches ‒ in front of their houses for free collection.
Municipality officers will collect the discarded items between 9am and 7pm, following pre-announced routes and schedules, until Jan 27.
Residents are also urged to tidy up public areas in front of their homes to contribute to the cleanliness and beauty of their neighbourhoods for the upcoming festival.
“The initiative aligns with the spirit of renewal and preparation for the Chinese New Year, fostering a cleaner and more vibrant community in Phuket Town,” Deputy Mayor Ornpilai said.
Chinese New Year this year will be celebrated around the world from Jan 29, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake.
This festival is celebrated for 15 days. The Snake is the sixth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac and is associated with wisdom, intuition and strategic growth.