Ratchada emphasized the government's readiness to listen to all voices during the Cabinet meeting tour in Songkhla, explaining that the development of Chana relies on the SEA study as a framework, adhering to data and public participation.
On 29 August 2026, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, spoke about the upcoming official offsite Cabinet meeting in Songkhla from 31 August to 1 September 2026. She said one key purpose of this visit is to directly hear problems, proposals, and feedback from citizens and various sectors to inform development and problem-solving plans aligned with local needs.
"The government welcomes all opinions, whether proposals, support, or concerns, because the Cabinet meeting tour is not merely a change of venue but an opportunity for the Prime Minister and ministers to hear directly from local people, which is crucial for policy decisions."
Regarding the development plan for Chana District, Songkhla Province, the government has acknowledged and is ready to listen to all views. It clarified that the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has conducted a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) under the master plan for Songkhla and Pattani, with Prince of Songkla University as consultant. The study took nearly three years, from 29 December 2022 to 28 August 2025.
The study covered analysis of land suitability and development options, monitoring and evaluation guidelines, as well as public understanding and participation processes. Throughout the study period, over 40 formal and informal forums were held, involving citizens, communities, businesses, civil society, government agencies, academic institutions, and local stakeholders.
The SEA is a study of overall development directions for Songkhla and Pattani, considering economic, social, quality of life, natural resources, and environmental aspects, not the approval of any specific project. The Cabinet acknowledged and approved the SEA results on 16 June 2026.
"The government is ready to listen to differing opinions. For Chana, we have both public voices and SEA results developed through broad participation. Future development decisions must comprehensively consider this information, prioritize the benefit of the people and area, and proceed carefully according to legal procedures."