Bangkok: Mallika's campaign in Bang Khae-Thonburi receives a strong welcome from vendors, who place their hopes on a 'Street Food Paradise'. The atmosphere during Dr. Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk's campaign visits to markets in Bang Khae and Thonburi districts was lively, with vendors warmly welcoming her.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Mallika listened to proposals from vendors who wanted Bangkok to seriously pursue the "Street Food Paradise" policy to promote commerce, stimulate spending, and increase income opportunities for the public. Many vendors agreed that regulating trading areas should go hand-in-hand with promoting livelihoods, not hindering economic opportunities. They suggested designating clear, orderly, clean, and safe trading areas, and allowing vendors to sell on sidewalks in suitable locations.
Regarding the challenges of competition from foreign businesses and public concerns about law enforcement and regulation of street stalls potentially impacting the livelihoods of Thais, Dr. Mallika stated that Bangkok must be a city of opportunity for everyone, especially small-scale vendors, who are a vital force in driving the grassroots economy. She pledged to concretely implement the "Street Food Paradise" concept to provide suitable trading spaces. "Bangkok must be a city where small business owners have a place. Small-scale vendors must have the opportunity to earn an honest living. We can regulate the city while simultaneously creating income for the people, not choose one over the other. A strong grassroots economy is the foundation of a future metropolis."
This field visit reflects the demands of the public for economic changes, increased job opportunities, and urban management that better addresses the real-life needs of Bangkok residents. Furthermore, Dr. Mallika wanted to address a specific issue concerning BMTA (Bangkok Mass Transit Authority) buses. These buses are reportedly blocking stops by citing taxis, preventing long-waiting passengers from boarding. She also noted that air-conditioned buses are often reluctant to accommodate crowded passengers, a matter that is deeply disheartening.
Dr. Mallika then decided to state that everything is based on our freedom and liberty, and that since we have the money to pay for the bus, we should be able to ride it. She then flagged down an air-conditioned bus pulling into the stop and, with a respectful gesture, instructed the driver to treat all passengers equally and give a chance to those who had been waiting for a long time, even those carrying heavy bags. Immediately, the passengers with heavy bags jumped onto the air-conditioned bus.