Phuket reviews Patong Rosh Hashanah event over safety

Phuket authorities have asked organisers of a Rosh Hashanah event in Patong to review their plans after a local group raised concerns over safety, public order and the possible effect on tourism.

The Jewish New Year celebration, planned by Chabad Patong for September 11, 2026, has drawn a petition from Protect Phuket Land, whose members have called for the event to be cancelled this year.

On September 8, Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom assigned Deputy Governors Police Captain Khettharat Chansilp and Romdon Haji-Awae to lead discussions with security agencies, administrative officials, police and other parties following the petition.

Officials assess security and public order

Provincial officials said Patong's status as a major international tourism area meant any large gathering required a careful risk assessment. They cited concerns that third parties could attempt to disrupt the event, potentially affecting residents, visitors and Phuket's standing as a tourist destination.

Deputy Governor Khettharat said the province's priority was public order and the safety of both residents and tourists. He said the same laws and standards would be applied to every group, without discrimination.

Police said security arrangements would be decided according to the situation and would be intended to protect the public, tourists and all those attending the event, without favouring any group.

Petition calls for cancellation

Protect Phuket Land, led by Saichon Nuchet, delivered its letter to Phuket Provincial Hall at about 10am on September 8. Mueang Phuket district chief Siwat Rawangkul received it on behalf of the provincial administration.

Saichon said the group had been told that between 1,000 and 2,000 people could attend, and that participants would be Israeli, with no Thai or other nationalities involved. He said local residents feared the gathering could become a target for people seeking to create unrest.

The group argued that regional tensions involving Israel, and stronger opposition among some Thai and foreign residents, made this year's event different from previous celebrations. It asked officials to examine the organiser, venues and participants, legal compliance, community impact and security near Chabad centres and hotels.

Saichon said the group wanted the event cancelled whether it was held at Chabad or a hotel, and called for adequate security to prevent violence. Another representative, Thatchaphon, said protesters would seek to block the venue if the event proceeded and that the group was prepared to intensify its campaign.

Officials said no decision had yet been made. Siwat said the province would consider the law, the current situation and public sentiment; last year's event was held at a hotel under tight security, but stronger measures may be needed this year. He added that Israeli tourists genuinely visiting Phuket have the right to travel in the province.

Picture courtesy of MGR Online

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10 September 2026

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