Bangkok: Suriya Jungrungruangkit, a prime ministerial candidate for the Pheu Thai Party, has confirmed his commitment to advancing two significant public policies-the “20 Baht flat fare for the entire BTS Skytrain line” and the “Housing for Thai People” initiative-within three months of a Pheu Thai-led government taking office. He made this announcement during the “Overhauling Thailand: Pheu Thai Can Do It” event, where he showcased his vision for the nation’s future.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suriya expressed gratitude to the Pheu Thai Party leadership for selecting him as one of the three prime ministerial candidates. Before his political career, he spent over two decades in the automotive parts industry, which equipped him with the experience to tackle systemic issues limiting business growth and livelihood improvements in Thailand. He emphasized the need for systemic changes to enable prosperity and national growth.
Mr. Suriya recounted his entry into politics, prompted by an invitation from former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to join the Thai Rak Thai party. He highlighted his history of successfully implementing policies, drawing attention to his role in the privatization of PTT Public Company Limited and Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) during his tenures as Minister of Industry and Minister of Transport, respectively. These initiatives significantly increased the market capitalization of the entities and government assets, benefiting millions of Thai families.
Reflecting on his accomplishments, Mr. Suriya cited the completion of Suvarnabhumi Airport as a major achievement during his 25 years in office. He noted that the airport’s opening led to high global rankings, though it faced a decline following the 2006 coup. Since resuming his role as Minister of Transport in 2023, he has prioritized advancing Suvarnabhumi Airport into a world-class aviation hub, improving passenger processes, and enhancing its global standing.
Mr. Suriya outlined the details of two key policies. The first is the 20-baht flat fare for the entire BTS Skytrain line, a policy prepared under his previous leadership roles but stalled following political changes. He assured that if Pheu Thai returns to power, this fare structure would be implemented within three months. Additionally, he introduced a proposal for 10-baht air-conditioned buses, aiming to upgrade the existing bus system and make it affordable for low-income individuals.
The second policy focuses on “Homes for Thai People,” with four pilot projects already underway to provide affordable housing in prime locations. Mr. Suriya emphasized the importance of convenient transportation and accessibility to essential services, intending to expand this initiative nationwide.
Mr. Suriya concluded with a message of optimism and determination, countering external skepticism about Pheu Thai’s potential resurgence. He expressed confidence in the party’s experienced and dynamic team, committed to developing Thailand and serving its people. As a prime ministerial candidate, he pledged to unite efforts for the nation’s progress and prosperity.