The golf course manager within a village in Pathum Thani insists they are not remaining idle and are in the process of planning the construction of netting poles. Compensation has been paid to affected residents, with home repairs carried out accordingly.
In a case involving Mr. Rawin Chumkasian, also known as “Sam Rawin,” a former model from the 1990s and a resident of a village in Mueang District, Pathum Thani, he complained to the media about problems caused by a golf course within the village. The golf balls frequently landed on houses, breaking roofs and windows, causing damage. Despite complaints to both government and private agencies, no responsible party came forward, prompting him to appeal to the media to raise awareness among relevant authorities and the golf course owners, as previously reported.
The latest update, as of 20 Jan 2026 GMT+7, saw reporters revisit the village and find that the distress was not limited to Mr. Rawin’s home; other residents have also been affected.
Mr. Hiran Yapraphao, 50, a neighbor living nearby, revealed that before the golf course ownership changed hands, the previous owner managed the situation better. Since the new ownership, the process of requesting repairs for golf ball damage has become more complicated with many steps. Since he is not home regularly, he cannot always tell when a golf ball hits his roof or who hit it. When he reported the damage to the golf course, he had to provide such detailed information, which he found burdensome. Consequently, he now buys spare roof tiles to make repairs himself. One day, while watering plants, a golf ball hit and broke a glass table near his front door. When he reported this, the golf course replaced it promptly because he could specify the time of impact.
Regarding this complaint, he believes it is beneficial as it will push the golf course owner to improve the situation. He and other residents want a netted barrier to prevent golf balls from hitting homes. He also opposes the golf course’s “night golf” events, which have caused problems at night, including loud music, drinking parties, and bright lights shining into houses when residents want to rest.
Additionally, reporters inspected the golf course area adjacent to Mr. Rawin’s and Mr. Hiran’s houses. Their backyards border the golf course directly, with metal poles and nets installed to prevent golf balls from entering their homes. However, some sections of the netting are damaged and unable to stop golf balls, leading to the complaints. One house displayed a vinyl sign attached to the fence facing the golf course, written in both Thai and English: “Dear golfers, if a golf ball hits or lands on a house roof, an initial damage fee of 5,000 baht will be charged.”
Mr. Daniel Boonkalaya, the golf course’s general manager, explained that the golf course has indeed received complaints from residents and assures they are not ignoring the issues. They are currently planning the construction of netting poles as promised to residents. Contractors have been hired, and construction is expected to start within the next month. He wants to assure all residents of their commitment.
Previously, the golf course has accepted reports of golf ball damage and has taken responsibility by paying for actual repair costs to roofs and windows as claimed by residents. Regarding Mr. Rawin’s house, the manager suggested that perhaps he had not formally reported damage to the golf course, which is why repairs and compensation have not yet occurred.
Regarding the “night golf” activities, the golf course began offering this service around March last year. They acknowledge initial heavy complaints about noise, lighting, and the golf course’s image. However, they have since implemented rules and improvements, leading to fewer complaints. Music volume and social gatherings are now more strictly controlled to avoid disturbing residents. Additionally, caddies have been instructed to maintain a professional image and consider the golf course’s reputation.
Police Colonel Wiwat Asawawiboon, superintendent of Mueang Pathum Thani Police Station, stated that officers received complaints from residents and filed official reports late last year confirming the incidents. The police have coordinated with the golf course liaison to ensure improvements are made, as any incidents causing bodily harm could lead to criminal charges. The golf course has promised to promptly improve and prevent further impact on residents. The manager has committed to constructing netting to protect homes from golf ball damage.