Bangkok: Secretary-General of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has engaged in discussions with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior to strategize on tackling drug problems comprehensively, emphasizing the role of governors as CEOs across provinces.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanurat Lakboon, Secretary-General of the ONCB, along with other key officials, including Deputy Secretary-Generals Mr. Sirisuk Yuenhan and Ms. Areephak Ngernbamrung, met with Mr. Arsit Sampantharat, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. The meeting focused on drug prevention and resolution strategies for 2025 and the implementation of these plans in 12 model provinces. The discussions took place at the City Hall Building, Ministry of Interior, with significant figures like Mr. Siam Sirimongkol, Director-General of the Community Development Department, and other deputy directors in attendance.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat expressed his congratulations to Mr. Sampa
ntharat on his new role and acknowledged the Ministry of Interior’s persistent efforts in combating drug issues. He emphasized the critical role played by governors, who act as CEOs, and local civil servants in successfully implementing the acceleration action plan across 25 provinces last year. The sustainability of drug problem resolution, he noted, relies heavily on creating local mechanisms that support governmental referrals, with the Ministry of Interior being pivotal in reaching communities nationwide.
Mr. Sampantharat highlighted that despite the Ministry’s drug budget being only 5 percent of the total integrated budget, the focus remains on alleviating public suffering and enhancing happiness. He reaffirmed the commitment to ensuring that all provincial governors act as CEOs to drive the 2025 action plan for drug prevention, suppression, and resolution, aligning with governmental objectives.
Additionally, the ONCB Secretary-General outlined the plan for 2025, which includes setting tangible success
indicators for every district to boost public confidence and safety. The effort will expand from 2 to 12 prototype provinces, with the Ministry of Interior’s support crucial for this expansion. The strategy hinges on local community mechanisms to foster a collective approach to drug issues. The Mother of the Land Fund, with its two-decade history, is identified as a key component for sustainable support, set for expansion in 2025.
The ONCB also aims to enhance drug prevention efforts by integrating EF programs into schools under the Department of Local Administration Promotion, aiming to build resilience among children and youth against drugs. Public cooperation is urged to contribute to creating a safe and sustainable society. The ONCB hotline remains open for any drug-related reports.