Park Chief Faces Investigation Over Closed Similans Lodging Approval
The Similans National Park chief faces investigation for allegedly allowing a lawmaker and his group to stay at the park four years ago, violating an eight-year closure order that restricts the area to day-trips only.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plants announced on August 6, 2025 that the department director has ordered an investigation into whether the Similans National Park chief violated department regulations by permitting lawmaker Wirote Theeraphatthanont and his group to stay at the park about four years ago.
The investigation was triggered when Wirote, serving as a special parliamentary committee member, discussed his personal experience from a camping trip to Similans National Park approximately four years earlier during budget debate sessions on August 5, 2025. He described the accommodation and service quality as "extremely poor" and cited specific complaints including lights being shut off at 8 p.m., poor bedding conditions, limited water supply, weak internet signal, and recommended considering private-sector management partnerships (PPP).
Department Director Arthapol Charounchansai acknowledged the lawmaker's constructive suggestions but emphasized the need to verify the facts thoroughly. He ordered an investigation committee to examine whether the Similans park chief's authorization for Wirote's group violated the department's October 4, 2016 closure announcement, which has been in effect for eight years and mandates the area be restricted to day-trips only to address waste, wastewater, and environmental protection concerns.
The director stated that while the department welcomes beneficial recommendations to improve service efficiency, all proposals must follow proper government procedures and legal frameworks. He reaffirmed that any useful suggestions will be considered for operational improvements while adhering to all relevant regulations and legal requirements.
