Phuket’s leaders are pushing for special administrative status akin to Bangkok and Pattaya, aiming to enhance infrastructure and self-governance. At a recent seminar held on the island, hosted by Governor Sophon Suwannarat, discussions centred on the benefits of this proposed change.

 

Deputy Chairman Somchart Techataworncharoen of the House committee on decentralisation emphasised that the seminar aimed to garner public support for transforming Phuket's administrative framework. This shift would echo past changes when Phuket attained metropolis status, targeting more efficient local governance.

 

Phuket, a key contributor to Thailand’s economy with an annual income of at least 20 billion baht , finds its development hindered by hefty taxes. Last year, the island returned over 18.9 billion baht to the central government, leaving only a paltry 3.9 billion baht for essential infrastructure projects. These financial constraints have stifled efforts to address pressing issues such as traffic congestion, water shortages, and flooding.

 

Proponents argue that granting Phuket special administrative status could alleviate these concerns. "This change would allow for a flexible administrative structure similar to those in Bangkok and Pattaya," stated Somchart.

 

Phuket Senator Nipon Ekwanit also voiced his support but cautioned that broader discussions are needed. He proposed creating a special economic corridor dedicated to tourism governance, akin to the Eastern Economic Corridor, which balances administrative control with various agencies. This approach, according to Nipon, could reduce the island's tax obligations to the central administration, liberating funds for local development.

 

Residents are encouraged to rally behind a proposed Phuket Metropolis Act, needing at least 10,000 signatures to advance the bill to the House. Governor Sophon noted Phuket’s unique demographic, hosting around 1.5 million residents, encompassing tourists, labourers, and expatriates—all of whom depend on improved provincial administration yet receive insufficient budgetary support from the central government.

 

As discussions continue, Phuket hopes to secure the administrative flexibility it needs to effectively manage its resources and burgeoning population. This move could transform the island, turning its visions for enhanced infrastructure and local autonomy into reality.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-29

 

 

1 minute ago, snoop1130 said:

with an annual income of at least 20 billion baht (approximately 552 million Thai Baht),

Does not make sense mathematically 

Sure doesn't not even if it should have been 20 million dollars