Nattapong Rittidech found the bag containing the cash in the toilets at the store on Nov 30. It was handed back to its rightful owner, President of Nakorn Sri Thamarat People’s Association in Phuket, Pornpisuth Limdamrongkul on Wednesday (Dec 2).
Mr Pornpisuth gave Nattapong B2,000 as a reward. (See story here)
Phuket Governor Chamroen Tippayapongtada yesterday awarded Nattapong his certificate in the presence of Vice Governor Chokdee Amornwat, city officials and friends and family of Nattapong.
Gov Chamroen said “I want everybody to follow Nattapon’s example, he is a role model. Honesty is the best policy, you’ll have a better life in the end, corruption won’t get you far.
“In praising Nattapong, we must also praise his parents who’ve taught him. I have no doubt that Nattapong is also a good father to his three children.
“To be a good person, you don’t have to wait until you have a better job or high position, you can start any time. Take this young man for instance. I have filed a report to my superior and to the Tourism Ministry in Bangkok about Nattapong,” he said.
Gov Chamroen left a message to those who have posted negative messages on social media about Phuket’s government.
“Online comments state that the Phuket Governor doesn’t care about good people. That’s rubbish! I never neglect to praise and honour people who do good deeds and are role models in our society.
“At our monthly meeting we always discuss and award people who have done good on the island, but this time I did not wait until the next meeting to give Nattapong his award. If I had those who post on social media would probably have said I had ignored this good guy.”
Mr Nattapong said, “I am glad and proud that the Governor gave me this certificate. People should never take other people’s belongings even if you are poor.
“This is something I was taught by my mother and it should be something that everyone follows. We need to promote a good image and serve with honesty so our island will attract more tourists,” he said.