The visit also marked the opening of a new ‘Senate Coordination Center’ in Phuket, established to receive public complaints and facilitate problem-solving efforts.
The delegation was led by Senator Sunthorn Chaowakitkha alongside Nipon Ekwanich, the Phuket member of the Thai Senate. Also present was Senator Noppadol Phringsakul and other senators.
The delegation was welcomed by Phuket Provincial Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) Thiraphong Chuaychu as well as Phuket Chamber of Commerce President Kongsak Khoopongsakorn.
Key issues discussed included economic challenges, tourism concerns, environmental sustainability and infrastructure development, said an official report of the visit.
Particular attention was given to traffic congestion, small hotel licensing regulations and difficulties faced by SMEs ‒ issues that were described as of “significantly impact to the province’s economy”.
During the visit, the senators officially opened the Phuket Provincial Senate Coordination Center, located on Thepkrasattri Rd in Ratsada. The centre will serve as a hub for receiving complaints and ensuring that public concerns are addressed by relevant authorities, said the official report.
The senators emphasised the importance of collaboration between government agencies, the private sector and the local community to drive sustainable development.
Residents and business owners have long urged the Senate to accelerate solutions for pressing issues such as traffic congestion and waste management, which are seen as major obstacles to Phuket’s long-term growth.
The newly established coordination center will be a key point of contact for residents seeking to raise concerns or propose solutions, the report said.