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 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.

Indonesia plans over 20 energy projects in 2025
Parliaments

Indonesia plans over 20 energy projects in 2025

Indonesia remains heavily dependent on coal and is one of the world’s top greenhouse gas emitters. However, President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to phase out coal-fired power generation within 15 years and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Indonesia launches new sovereign wealth fund
Parliaments

Indonesia launches new sovereign wealth fund

The new fund, known as Daya Anagata Nusantara, or Danantara, which is modeled on Singapore's investment arm Temasek, was approved by the parliament this month. It will take control of government holdings in state companies, with an initial budget of 20 billion USD.

Thailand to boost medical economy
Parliaments

Thailand to boost medical economy

According to the ministry's permanent Secretary Opas Kankawinpong, the Health Economics Department has recently been established to determine policies regarding health economics through data-driven analysis, allocate resources and create an efficient public health system that is fair and sustainable.

Indonesia boosts culinary tourism
Parliaments

Indonesia boosts culinary tourism

To promote Indonesian culinary tourism, the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is currently focusing on culinary products to ensure that tourism products can move up a class. It is also paying attention to wellness tourism, gastronomy, marine, and fashion.