Phuket Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Sinlert Sukhum officiated the opening of the new building yesterday (July 5).
Present for the occasion were Komon Dumlak, Chairman of the Phuket Provincial Islamic Committee; Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Pol Col Akanit Phithaksat, Trin Panyawai, President of the Sakhu Tambon Administrative Organisation (OrBorTor); Monchai Tanode, General Manager of Phuket International Airport; along with Sakhu Police Chief Pol Col Salan Tantisasanakul and honoured guests.
“The construction of this prayer building is a landmark event, being the first of its kind in Thailand,” Pol Maj Gen Sinlert said.
“It exemplifies our commitment to serving the public and tourists, offering a beautiful and clean environment for prayer. We believe this will become a key check-in location for Muslims visiting Nai Yang Beach and contacting the Sakhu Police Station."
Pol Col Salan explained that the initiative aims to accommodate both citizens and tourists, particularly those of the Muslim faith, who frequent the Sirinath National Park and the police station.
He noted that previously, the lack of a designated prayer space had led visitors to pray in unsuitable locations, including around trees and other people.
“The ‘Prayer Building for the People’ was built in a design that combines Chinese and Arab culture to be beautiful, durable and strong,” he added.
“It marks a significant step in public service, ensuring that Muslim visitors have a designated, clean, and beautiful place to pray,” he said.