Sadao: Anukun Prueksanusak, Deputy Government Spokesperson, has taken a group of media representatives to visit Khao Le National Park in Sadao District, near the Thai-Malaysian border, with the aim of promoting the park as a significant tourist destination. The initiative seeks to attract Malaysian tourists and assure them of safety in the border town.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Anukun led the press tour to explore the development and enhancement of new tourist attractions within Khao Le National Park, located in Songkhla Province. This area is recognized for its cultural and natural significance, featuring attractions such as the 'sea of mist' viewpoint and a 360-degree panoramic view from Khao Hua Lan and Khao Khiao, which are popular among Thai tourists, including teenagers, mountain climbers, and hikers. The park is divided into two main zones: the Forest Zone, which is being developed with the Plant Genetic Conservation Project initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, and the Buddha Park Zone, which houses the 'Phra Phutthanimit Phichitmar' statue and other cultural attractions.
Mr. Anukun emphasized the importance of upgrading the tourism infrastructure in Sadao Municipality to ensure continuous development. The Khao Le Buddha Park project is seen as a vital initiative that can attract tourists, boost local income, and stimulate the district's economy. The park will also serve as a relaxation spot and a venue for religious ceremonies, contributing to its cultural tourism appeal. The project's estimated construction cost is 99 million baht.
Mr. Maitree Sanphasin, Songkhla's provincial engineer and city planner, revealed that the design study for Khao Le Buddha Park began in 2021 and has now been completed. An initial budget of 99 million baht is earmarked for improving local tourist attractions in line with the government's Amazing Thailand and sports promotion policies. The budget will enhance the landscape around the park, including the entrance, drainage systems, viewpoints, and connecting walkways. The park features a 600-step pathway leading to the Buddha statue.
Sadao District Chief, Mr. Wichet Saikiseng, noted that Khao Le Buddha Park offers views across Sadao District and into Malaysia. The district has two permanent checkpoints, Sadao and Padang Besar, which see significant tourist traffic, particularly from Malaysia. The development of tourist attractions like Khao Le is intended to accommodate more visitors and boost the local economy.
Pol. Col. Surachit Petchjom, Superintendent of Sadao Police Station, assured that tourist safety is a priority, with measures in place from the border, involving coordination between various security agencies. Sadao District, as a transit area, is being developed to attract more tourists, particularly from Malaysia. Efforts are underway to transform Sadao into a gateway city to Thailand, emphasizing the need to create lasting impressions for visitors. Although Sadao's entertainment options are not as extensive as those in Koh Samui, Phuket, or Chiang Mai, the district offers a unique appeal, especially for Malaysian tourists who find value in visiting Thailand.