Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education Chen Yotsanan, wearing a floral shirt and holding a water gun, joined the final day of Silom's Songkran celebration, highlighting cultural diversity to stimulate the economy and emphasizing that economic progress must continue despite the energy crisis.
At 1:00 p.m. on 14 April 2026 GMT+7, on Silom Road, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), dressed in a floral shirt and carrying a water gun, was joined by Mr. Wiput Sriwaurai, Chairman of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council, and Bang Rak district councilors as they led the Phuea Thai Party team to meet locals and tourists and participated in the Songkran water festival on the final day of the event on Silom Road.
The atmosphere along both sides of the street was lively. Mr. Yotsanan greeted vendors warmly, inquiring about business conditions during the festival. He joined in activities by trying deep-fried spicy fish balls, grilling Isaan sausages, and frying omelets alongside local shop owners, attracting continuous interest from residents and tourists who asked for photos as souvenirs.
The group then joined the Songkran water festivities with the public, especially youths and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who enthusiastically sprayed water and took selfies. Mr. Yotsanan noted that the diversity seen on Silom Road is a key strength of Thailand’s Soft Power and tourism industry that should be promoted.
Regarding policy, Mr. Yotsanan commented on the overall economy, saying that although the global energy situation remains uncertain and energy security goals fragile, affecting production costs, the government asserts that the country’s economic mechanisms—particularly tourism and the Creative Economy—must continue to generate revenue, enabling citizens to adapt amid these constraints.
The Phuea Thai Party team, led by spokesperson Mr. Sukit Srijomkwan, Deputy Secretary-General Mr. Chanin Rungreungthanakiat, and party-list MP Mr. Thongtham Vechayachai, along with members such as Mr. Chatthin Janhom, Mr. Anekchai Ruangrattanakorn, and Mr. Sahawat Weeramongkolkul, listened to feedback from local business operators to inform strategies addressing living costs and energy expenses affecting small businesses.
Mr. Wiput Sriwaurai, Chairman of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council, emphasized the importance of managing event spaces to ensure safety and inclusivity for all groups, aiming to create a positive image for Bangkok.
After over an hour of participating in water activities, Mr. Yotsanan and his team spoke with and encouraged cleaning staff from the Bang Rak district office who maintained order throughout the festival before departing.
