He also vowed to work hard to make Phuket an even better place for residents and visitors, before officially starting work tomorrow.
Mr Saransak took office following his Cabinet appointment on Aug 19. Speaking on his first day, he acknowledged both the opportunities and the challenges that come with leading a world-class tourist destination.
“As a new governor, I have already studied the previous governor’s practices to some extent and share the same viewpoint as everyone in Phuket. While Phuket is a province of great benefit to Thailand, the right to return to Phuket for development does not meet the needs of everyone in Phuket or the needs of a world-class tourist destination. This is especially true for public utilities and infrastructure issues, which must be addressed by the local government and the central government,” he told The Phuket News.
“I promise to do my best, as I deeply appreciate the contributions of everyone in Phuket. I had the opportunity to intern in Phuket for approximately six to seven months, and I reaffirm that, upon returning as Phuket governor, I am committed to performing my duties well, ensuring the satisfaction and well-being of everyone in Phuket, and ensuring the continued development of the province in a positive direction. I am also ready to work with the local government agencies, local communities and all the private sector,” he added.
Governor Saransak highlighted critical issues facing the island. “Several urgent issues are high on my agenda, including easing traffic congestion in Phuket, developing a modern public transportation system, and advancing the water transportation project to help reduce road traffic.
“These efforts will also use modern technology such as Big Data to improve traffic safety and enhance the quality of tourism services,” he stated.
Governor Saransak emphasised his commitment to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s ‘7 Pillars’ policy, which he explained aims to rebuild confidence in the economy and society, support small businesses and households with cash flow, lower living costs, promote fair trade and investment, improve safety from crime, drugs, and online threats, prepare for global economic risks, and boost tourism and spending to create income.
“I am determined, attentive, and sincere in my work for the people of Phuket. Despite some obstacles, my ultimate goal is to create benefits and well-being for the people,” Governor Saransak said.
Mr Saransak, a native of Udon Thani, brings with him more than 29 years of experience in government service.
He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Political Science from Chulalongkorn University, and has completed a wide range of professional development courses both in Thailand and abroad, including international crisis management at the University of Malaya in Malaysia.
He began his career as a Deputy District Chief in Udon Thani before serving as District Chief in Loei, Nong Khai and Udon Thani provinces.
He later rose to Vice Governor of Udon Thani and an Inspector General at the Ministry of Interior. Then promoted to Deputy Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) before his appointment as Governor of Phuket.
“This is another important step for me, and I believe it will help Phuket move forward in safety, security, and development as a world-class tourist city, using the experience and vision I have gained over many years,” he said.
Accompanied by his wife, Ruedeewan Srikruanetra, who now takes up the post as the new President of the Phuket branch of the Red Cross Society of Thailand, the Governor began the day by paying homage at the Phuket City Pillar Shrine, followed by the Heroines Monuments in Thalang, and Wat Chaiyathararam (Wat Chalong), where he paid respects to Luang Por Chaem.
In the afternoon, he paid tribute at the King Rama V Monument at the Old Phuket Provincial Hall before leading ceremonies at the new Phuket Provincial Hall.
The day concluded at the Phuket Governor’s Residence, where he met with heads of government agencies and local business representatives.
Provincial leaders including all three Vice Governors ‒ Adul Chuthong, Samawit Suphanphai and Suwit Phansengiam ‒ along with Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) President Rewat Areerob, senior officials and community representatives joined the ceremonies throughout the day before the new Governor begins his work in earnest tomorrow.