Phuket governor says AI will sort public concerns to guide provincial policy

Phuket Governor Chotinrin has said public feedback gathered through a new provincial initiative will be processed using artificial intelligence to categorise concerns, identify trends and help authorities prioritise solutions.

The initiative was launched at the Governor’s Residence and invited people to submit views in person, write comments on public boards, leave anonymous suggestions in a comment box or send feedback online through a QR code-linked form.

“We want the public to participate in offering opinions and jointly developing Phuket,” Governor Chotinrin said.

The event was attended by government officials, business representatives, media and members of the public. Vice Governors Suwit Phansengiam and Romdon Hayiawae also attended.

Suggestions posted on the public message board included calls to address chronic flooding, ease traffic congestion, increase police patrols, create more jobs for Phuket residents and improve public transport. Other comments urged the province to reserve certain occupations for Thai nationals, strengthen action against illegal immigrants, improve care of roadside trees by employing qualified arborists, and enforce the law more strictly for tourists.

Residents also proposed a motorcycle transport service linking Phuket International Airport with surrounding areas, while others called for stronger protection of marine resources and the environment.

Governor Chotinrin said the feedback would help shape provincial policies in five priority areas: economic development and modernisation, tourism, security and public safety, society and quality of life, and natural resources and the environment.

He said the province aims to strengthen the local economy by supporting SMEs and OTOP businesses, while expanding higher-value tourism sectors including medical tourism, MICE and sports tourism as part of Phuket’s Smart City ambitions.

The governor also reiterated the administration’s commitment to tackling long-standing issues including public space management, business regulation, labour management and traffic congestion.

Earlier on Friday, Governor Chotinrin inspected Yacht Haven Marina in Thalang to review safety measures during the southwest monsoon season. The inspection focused on electrical systems, infrastructure and safety equipment, and he instructed relevant agencies to ensure the marina meets required standards as Phuket enters one of its busiest tourism periods.

He also met marina operators to discuss upgrading safety standards and preparing yacht facilities ahead of the coming high season.

Later, the governor received an update on the review of five disputed beachfront houses in Moo 2, Ban Kho En, Mai Khao. Officials said additional documents submitted by the property owners were being examined against previously lodged information before authorities decide what action should be taken under the law.

Governor Chotinrin said investigations and development initiatives would be carried out transparently and in accordance with the law, adding that cooperation between government agencies would be essential to improve public safety and maintain public confidence.