Amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, the new parliament house stands tall, ushering in a wave of intense debate and scrutiny. At the heart of this is an eyebrow-raising request for hundreds of millions of baht—meant for renovations—coming at a time when many Thais are experiencing economic struggles.
The request isn’t just a standard refurbishment expense. It includes 113 million baht for the refurbishment of the little-used Sala Kaeo, or ‘Crystal Pavilion,’ an area that, frankly, feels more like a futuristic sauna than a functional space. Assoc Prof Puangthong Pawakapan from Chulalongkorn University famously quipped on Facebook, “After 8am, don’t even think about walking in—you might turn into grilled chicken.” Her post spread like wildfire, triggering nods of agreement among the public and even among some of the People’s Party MPs.
PP MP Rukchanok Srinork, echoing the sentiment of her constituents, vowed to “vote down the proposal,” a stance resonating across Bangkok’s political scene. But that’s not where the eyebrow-raising ends. The proposition calls for a whopping 180 million baht to create a 4D cinema in the parliamentary complex. It’s a bid that has critics like PP MP Bhuntin Noumjerm scratching their heads, bewildered about how motion seats, wind effects, and cinematic lighting could ever relate to the solemn task of promoting democracy. “This is public money,” Mr. Bhuntin astutely pointed out. “What purpose does this cinema serve? Who will it benefit?”
If you thought that was the end of it, brace yourself. The proposal dives deeper with requests like a 118-million-baht lighting upgrade in the seminar rooms sprawled across floors B1 and B2—presumably to spotlight more than just democracy. Add to that, a 117-million-baht revamp plan for the parliamentary kitchen, transforming part of it into a recreation room. Who knew parliamentary proceedings needed a sprinkle of leisure?
Lastly, a crisp 99 million baht is earmarked for sound and video system upgrades in the grand 1,500-seat conference room. Because, apparently, you need Dolby Atmos to really debate legislature. Defending the contentious initiative, House of Representatives secretary-general, Acting Pol Sub Lt Arphat Sukanan, clarified that the so-called “cinema” is actually an information center, inspired by similar facilities in parliaments across the globe.
As the discussions swirl like a Bangkok breeze, citizens and politicians alike remain on tenterhooks—keenly observing if these upgrades will pass legislative scrutiny or be relegated to the annals of ambitious hindsight. One thing’s for certain: the drama unfolding in the new parliament house promises to be as riveting as a 4D blockbuster—minus the popcorn.
I can’t believe they are even considering such lavish spending while people are struggling to make ends meet. This is beyond inappropriate!
I agree, it’s absurd! The budget should be used for urgent needs like healthcare and education.
While I understand the frustration, sometimes such investments are meant for long-term benefits. It could eventually become a public space that generates revenue.
Long-term or not, prioritizing entertainment over basic needs is unethical. They should reconsider their priorities.
Is a 4D cinema really necessary for parliamentary operations? This seems more like a leisure center than a parliament.
Maybe they think a cinema will make speeches less boring. Seriously though, what’s next? A theme park?
Haha, might as well give it a shot if they are into extravagant ideas nowadays!
I think there’s a misunderstanding. They’re calling it a cinema, but it’s actually meant for interactive public engagement.
Sure, until it becomes a private cinema for officials. Just look at the track record!
Ah yes, while the rest of the country is navigating real problems, let’s watch legislators in 4D. Genius!
It’s almost as if they’re trying to distract people from the real issues with flashy renovations.
Honestly feels like it! Bread and circuses have gone digital and 4D.
This is classic misallocation of resources, a theater for the lawmakers or an educational epicenter for the public?
Can that budget be redirected to sustainable energy projects instead? The environment needs it more urgently.
With Dolby Atmos in a parliament room, they might as well host K-pop concerts there!
Forget parliament, this setup is fit for a global concert stage. Unreal!
I don’t see what all the fuss is about. Governments worldwide spend on infrastructure; why not make it cutting-edge?
Because there’s cutting-edge, and then there’s reckless spending. This definitely feels like the latter.
But innovation often seems reckless until the benefits kick in, right?
They should face a real-world simulation of living on minimum wage instead.
They’d be well-equipped to make better budget decisions afterward!
Wouldn’t all this tech be a security risk as well?
Surveillance does become easier with gadgets, yet it’s a minor concern these days, sadly.
As someone living nearby, I say nay! Money could do so much better in our struggling communities.
Focus on pragmatic renovations before dreamy fantasies. Basic facilities are still lacking everywhere.
All this fancy tech, yet such little genuine improvement in governance. Sad to see the contrasts growing.
Technology can’t fix a broken system, only solid policies can. Prioritize that!
Meanwhile, universities go neglected, and education budgets shrink annually. Where are our future priorities?
Developing countries should focus on essential infrastructure, not Western-style pleasures for a few.
I’d love to experience a 4D cinema, but not at this cost, and definitely not if funded by public money!