Ubon Ratchathani: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul took part in a community engagement and evacuation drill in Nam Yuen District, engaging with villagers and students in a unique display of solidarity and preparedness. Despite the rainy weather, Anutin shared a meal with locals at Wat Ban Kho, Tambon Dom Pradit, and engaged in conversations aimed at reassuring them in these challenging times.

According to Thai News Agency, Anutin’s visit included an inspection of the readiness of a bunker, where he joined the villagers to ensure they felt confident and unafraid of potential threats. The event further extended to Ban Paet Um School, where Anutin participated in a virtual training session with students ranging from kindergarten to Grade 6. As part of the drill, students, teachers, and Village Defense Volunteers practiced emergency procedures, with Anutin himself sitting among the children in the bunker.

During the drill, Anutin interacted with the students, asking if they were scared, to which they responded negatively. He reassured them of their safety, emphasizing the role of teachers and staff in maintaining order. The children and Anutin later engaged in a lively rendition of the “Kai Yang and Hippo” song, enhancing the morale of the participants.

Anutin’s visit also included the distribution of pocket money and items to 185 children, and visits to various classrooms where students greeted their teachers collectively. This interaction sparked laughter and a warm response from Anutin, who was amused by the children’s enthusiasm and good wishes.

When questioned about his potential appointment as the Minister of Education, Anutin remained non-committal. He encouraged the students to focus on their studies to contribute to the country’s future. He also addressed the media, expressing confidence in managing military tensions at the border and underscoring the importance of student safety during such drills.

Anutin underscored the necessity of maintaining human dignity and ensuring that evacuation centers provided a comfortable environment, akin to a 3-star hotel. He stressed the importance of hygiene and variety in meals served at these centers, suggesting specific dishes to enhance the residents’ experience.

In a meeting with provincial governors and local authorities, Anutin emphasized the need for them to stay in the area to ensure effective public care. He assured them of support through the Department of Local Administration and highlighted the governors’ authority to declare disaster areas and manage budgets effectively.