Panel Discussion Highlights Sports Ministry as Response to Changing Context
Kasem Bundit University hosted a forum advocating for Thailand to establish a dedicated Sports Ministry, with international Olympic Committee member Patama Leeswadthiphuk arguing that separate governance would strengthen athlete development
On May 14th, Kasem Bundit University's Center for Human Capital Innovation Development, partnering with network organizations, hosted an academic forum on "Thailand and the Future Sports Ministry" at the Pathamnart Room, Anoma Grand Hotel in Bangkok. The distinguished event featured Patama Leeswadthiphuk, International Olympic Committee member and World Badminton Federation president, as opening chair, alongside renowned experts in social affairs, political economy, sports management, and representatives from all divisions of the Tourism and Sports Ministry, attracting enthusiastic participation.
Associate Professor Rathpongse Bunyanuwat, director of Kasem Bundit University's Center for Human Capital Innovation Development, outlined the forum's objective to support government policy while creating meaningful public engagement and awareness through expert insights.
Patama Leeswadthiphuk presented Thailand's case for establishing a dedicated Sports Ministry, highlighting its benefits and added value, while citing successful international examples of how dedicated sports governance drives athletic development and excellence. She emphasized that successful sports development requires responsible support systems for athletes competing at Olympic and world levels.
Crucially, Patama stressed that sports matter as a crucible shaping youth who will become the nation's future. With each country maintaining different sports development structures, she argued Thailand needs a comprehensive sports development system. Establishing a separate Sports Ministry would represent a critical step in determining strategic policies to advance Thai sports across youth, community, professional, elite, and scientific levels, while also benefiting the national economy. A dedicated ministry would provide clear direction and ensure athlete welfare and support services before and after competition, while emphasizing good governance and ethical standards.
Moderated by Yuttapong Vichaydisit, former director of Thai Radio Station FM.99 and senior journalist, the forum invited multiple speakers presenting diverse perspectives.
Seksan Ngomsuwon, Deputy Secretary of the Tourism and Sports Ministry, noted that establishing a separate Sports Ministry is government policy, with the Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Pancharoen forming a working committee to study feasibility by examining international models before implementation. He highlighted that sports development is essential alongside economic development, with plans to separate tourism from culture.
Associate Professor Somchai Phakphasanvivat, independent economist and political scholar, observed that sports is a global signature and supports separating the Sports Ministry as a dedicated entity, linking it with youth activities to strengthen society and communities with concrete, tangible results. A Thai Sports Ministry would significantly benefit society and national development, particularly in human development including youth and all sectors.
