Top-level meeting: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra chaired the inaugural session of her five-member senior advisory team on Thursday at the illustrious government guest house known as Baan Phitsanulok. (Photo: Government House)
In the captivating atmosphere of Baan Phitsanulok, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra gathered with her newly minted advisory team to chart the course for Thailand’s future. With just over two years left in office, the agenda was ambitious: eradicate poverty and foster a thriving economy.
Deputy chairman of the advisory panel, Surapong Suebwonglee, echoed the prime minister’s determination, saying, “Prime Minister Paetongtarn is resolute in her mission to lift Thais out of poverty. Her vision is to tackle economic issues head-on, paving the way for a prosperous economy.”
This high-stakes meeting took place at Baan Phitsanulok, located on the elegant Phitsanulok Road. The grand mansion, resonating with history, was abuzz as the prime minister shared updates on her personal X account, showcasing photos of the team’s first engagement in the guest house’s ornate halls. “Baan Phitsanulok is officially opened,” she declared, marking a new chapter in Thailand’s governance.
The advisory team, handpicked by the prime minister, exudes a wealth of experience and expertise. Led by Pansak Vinyaratn, the panel includes notable figures such as Dr. Surapong, Tongthong Chandransu, Phongthep Thepkanjana, and Supavud Saicheua. Each member brings a unique perspective, enhancing the team’s collective strength.
After the inaugural meeting, Dr. Surapong shared insights into the prime minister’s readiness to embrace diverse suggestions from her advisers. “Mr. Tongthong will focus on civil service reform, while Mr. Pongthep, a legal sage, will provide guidance on improving the legal frameworks supporting our civil service,” he detailed. “Mr. Supavud, our economic luminary, will offer innovative ideas on economic policies.”
Adding further to the dynamic mix, Dr. Surapong, with his deep involvement in public health and soft power development, will inject his expertise into these areas. Mr. Pansak, an experienced political strategist with a rich background in foreign affairs, rounds out the advisory team with his seasoned insights.
Notably, Mr. Pansak’s legacy includes advising several past prime ministers, including Ms. Paetongtarn’s father, Thaksin Shinawatra, during his tenure as prime minister. This historical continuity underscores the team’s deep-rooted understanding of Thailand’s political landscape.
In a move to create a more inclusive dialogue, Dr. Surapong mentioned that representatives from the private sector and various government agencies will periodically join the discussions at Baan Phitsanulok. “We’re looking to gather a broad spectrum of ideas and suggestions,” he said, highlighting the collaborative ethos of the current administration.
The advisory team plans to convene weekly, every Thursday, with the prime minister frequently in attendance. This cadence aims to ensure continuous engagement and swift action on pressing issues. “The team will also coordinate closely with the cabinet and relevant government bodies to ensure seamless policy implementation,” Dr. Surapong added.
One of the early suggestions from the advisory team includes rolling out additional economic measures to support flood victims, alleviate debt burdens, and boost exports from small and medium-sized enterprises. “These measures will soon be presented to the prime minister for her review and approval,” confirmed Dr. Surapong.
Baan Phitsanulok, a Venetian Gothic edifice built in 1922, has primarily served as a guest house for dignitaries. Despite being the official residence of the prime minister, only Chuan Leekpai resided there for an extended period. The mansion’s rich history as a governmental nerve center is perhaps best embodied by its use under former prime minister Chatichai Choonhavan, from 1988 to 1991, when it became the command center for transformative policies, such as the famous “battlefields into marketplaces” initiative during post-Vietnam War regional recovery.
As Prime Minister Paetongtarn and her advisory team settle into this historical site, Thailand watches with hopeful anticipation, eager to see the new policies and reforms that will shape the nation’s future.
This seems like a PR stunt more than anything. How much can they really change in two years?
It’s better than doing nothing. At least they’re trying to make things better.
Trying isn’t enough. We need real, tangible results, not just meetings and announcements.
Government moves slowly, even if they start now, benefits might not be visible for a few years.
Did you read about the past achievements of some of these advisors? They have a proven track record.
Isn’t this just another Shinawatra trying to take control? Look at the history, they’re all about power.
Why are people always so negative? Give the woman a chance!
It’s interesting to see a legacy of advisors who’ve worked with several past governments. That continuity could be beneficial for policy implementation.
Or it could just mean more of the same old politics and no real change. Just sayin’.
The inclusion of experts from different fields is a good strategy. Hoping for some innovative solutions.
Experts are great, but only if the government actually listens to them.
Wow, finally someone focusing on lifting people out of poverty. This is a step in the right direction.
Does anyone know if there were any representatives from grassroots organizations at the meeting?
Not sure, but I think they mentioned involving the private sector periodically. That’s a start.
It would be beneficial to have grassroots voices. They usually know the issues on the ground better.
Venetian Gothic architecture sounds fancy, but does the meeting location really matter?
It’s symbolic. An inspiring place can lead to inspired decisions.
But fancy buildings don’t solve real-world problems.
Exactly my point. Let’s focus on what they do, not where they do it.
Pansak Vinyaratn advising them is a big deal. He’s had a successful stint advising previous PMs.
Inclusive dialogue? Let’s see if they actually take those ideas on board or just nod along.
Weekly meetings? Hope they keep up the momentum and not let it fizzle out.
I love the idea of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. They are the economy’s backbone.
What about environmental policies? No mention in the meeting, it seems.
New measures for flood victims sound good, but actions speak louder than words.
True. I’ve seen too many promises go unfulfilled over the years.
I just hope these new policies don’t end up being empty promises like before.
Agreed. There’s always a lot of talk but where’s the follow-through?
Baan Phitsanulok has a historic charm, maybe it’ll inspire them to think big.
Has Pansak Vinyaratn still got it, though? The political landscape has changed a lot since he last advised.
Thailand needs more action, less talk. We’ve heard the same old song for years.
I see potential, but it’ll depend on how well the advisors work together. Diverse opinions can lead to conflict if not managed well.
Involving both private sector and governmental agencies is crucial. Collaboration can lead to more comprehensive solutions.
Will this new team address the ever-growing gap between the rich and the poor?