Bangkok: The Minister of Commerce is taking steps to establish Song Wat Road in Bangkok's Samphanthawong District as a new landmark to boost the local economy. Mr. Chatuporn Buruspat, accompanied by Deputy Minister Mr. Chantawit Tantasith, other Ministry of Commerce executives, and local officials, visited the area to promote the initiative. The event focused on supporting both traditional and new entrepreneurs under the theme "Old Soul, New Style - Song Wat," highlighting the district's rich cultural and historical significance.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chatuporn emphasized the historical value of Song Wat Road, which dates back over a century to the reign of King Rama V. Today, it is a thriving old commercial district renowned for its Chinese-colonial architecture and a mix of traditional and modern businesses. The area is a hub for restaurants, cafes, and galleries, mainly operated by young entrepreneurs, while still retaining its traditional charm with grocery stores selling a variety of local goods. This unique blend of old and new makes Song Wat a significant attraction for both domestic and international tourists.
Mr. Chatuporn has collaborated with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and local entrepreneurs to develop Song Wat Road into a key tourism destination. The initiative, which aligns with the 'Thai Made, Thai Use, Thai Help Thai' policy, aims to foster economic growth by providing opportunities for young entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity and unique products. This development is expected to generate income for both traditional and modern businesses, preserving the area's cultural roots while encouraging innovation.
The Ministry is also working on infrastructure improvements for Song Wat Road, including landscaping, safety measures, and traffic management, to enhance visitor convenience. A Visitor Guide map is being developed to help tourists explore the area, and shops are encouraged to display clear pricing to ensure transparency and fairness. This approach aims to build trust among consumers and tourists and ensure equitable opportunities for vendors.
An exciting event titled "Awakening Song Wat 2025" is scheduled from August 8-17, 2025, showcasing 14 pieces of light and digital art across 12 locations on Song Wat Road. This event promises to attract more visitors and further solidify the area's status as a cultural and economic landmark.