Thailand advances plans for major southern Marina

The project to build a marina in the southern province of Surat Thani is estimated to cost 12.172 billion THB (360 million USD) and is expected to accommodate 120 cruise routes annually, generating at least 8 billion THB in revenue.

The Thai government has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a major marina in the southern province of Surat Thani to boost Koh Samui island’s tourism economy and accommodate growing international yacht traffic.

During a visit to Surat Thani on March 9, government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub emphasised the government's focus on enhancing southern infrastructure to drive economic growth, promote tourism, and ensure sustainable resource management.

Local authorities provided updates on the marina project, including Koh Samui’s drainage and wastewater systems. The new cruise terminal, set to begin construction in 2029 and complete by 2032, will cover 75,200 square meters, with a pier capable of housing two large cruise ships carrying 2,500–4,000 passengers each.

The project, with a 30-year operational plan, is estimated to cost 12.172 billion THB (360 million USD) and is expected to accommodate 120 cruise routes annually, generating at least 8 billion THB in revenue. Thailand’s Transport Ministry sees the terminal as a key step in establishing Koh Samui as a premier international yachting destination.

Earlier this year, the Italian cruise ship Costa Serena launched a new route connecting Laem Chabang (Thailand), Phu Quoc (Vietnam), and Koh Samui (Thailand).

Parliaments

Thailand revises tourism strategy after earthquake
Parliaments

Thailand revises tourism strategy after earthquake

Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong said that a tourism risk and crisis management team will be established to support the industry, with representatives from organisations in the tourism supply chain, such as the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Roads Authority.

Laos aims for sustainable infrastructure development
Parliaments

Laos aims for sustainable infrastructure development

Laos' Enabling Environment Roadmap for Infrastructure Asset Management (IAM EE) outlines strategies for the effective management of public infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals, with a focus on resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Cambodia strengthens cross-border crime control
Parliaments

Cambodia strengthens cross-border crime control

In 2024, Cambodia cracked down 197 cases relating to human trafficking and sexual exploitation, an increase of over 20% compared to the previous year. The authorities identified 523 victims and arrested 273 suspects and sent them to court, including 30 foreigners.

Indonesia rolls out people's schools initiative
Parliaments

Indonesia rolls out people's schools initiative

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has identified over 200 potential sites for the establishment of people’s schools (Sekolah Rakyat), a programme designed to provide free, quality education to children from economically disadvantaged families.

Indonesia to convert waste into fuel, power in 30 big cities
Parliaments

Indonesia to convert waste into fuel, power in 30 big cities

Indonesian Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung said each city can produce around 20 megawatts of electricity. The products obtained from waste processing will not be limited to electricity but also include fuel oil, which will be produced using pyrolysis technology.

Thailand rolls out anti-scam sandbox
Parliaments

Thailand rolls out anti-scam sandbox

One highlight of the DE fence platform is that it is connected to the databases of telecom operators to obtain the most up-to-date number information. It is also connected to the databases of the Royal Thai Police, the Anti-Money Laundering Office, the AOC 1441 Center, and the DES Ministry.