Governor Seeks Database of Phuket Ownership

THE GOVERNOR, Wichai Praisa-nob, has asked Phuket’s local authorities to provide information so a database can be established that combines all that is known about property on the island, especially resorts.

”I am not making trouble for anybody,” he told the media.

”We just need to know the facts so we can assess what needs to be done in the future.”

The governor was at pains to play down false reports that some kind of witchhunt is underway over so-called ”foreign ownership.”

A database can determine changes in future if ownership or a portion of ownership is sold either to Thai interests or overseas interests, he said.

False media reports exaggerating the proportion of foreign influence or ”control” of property and businesses on Phuket have led to a greater interest in the real situation.

Representatives from several organisations met with the Governor on Monday. These included the island’s local tessaban administrations, Phuket Provincial Business and Trade Office, Phuket Provincial Revenue office, Phuket Industry Office, Phuket Land Office and Phuket Immigration.

Phuketwan was among the few media representatives who attended that meeting.

A briefing for more media was held the following day. At no stage at meetings on either Monday or Tuesday was there talk of a ”police investigation.”

SOURCE: Phuketwan.com
By Chutima Sidasathian and Alan Morison