Thai Prime Minister Highlights San Kamphaeng’s Charm During Songkran Visit
CHIANG MAI, Thailand – April 14, 2025 — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is shining a spotlight on her family’s roots and promoting local tourism by inviting Thais and international visitors to experience the vibrant Pee Mai Muang San Kamphaeng celebrations in Chiang Mai.
The festivities center around Lhong Him Kao, a thriving crafts community in San Kamphaeng district, renowned for its showcase of traditional Lanna arts, crafts, and culture. Residents have creatively transformed their homes into cafes, homestays, and boutique craft shops, while popular markets like Kad Chamcha and Kad Ton Yon attract crowds with handmade goods and local delicacies.
Soft Power Through Community and Creativity
Lhong Him Kao also features innovative initiatives such as Heart Space, a co-working hub that supports local artists and young creatives, positioning the village as a model of community-led tourism through soft power.
Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub noted that the prime minister participated in key Lanna New Year rituals, including a sacred water pouring ceremony and paying respects to community elders. Dressed in traditional northern Thai attire, Ms. Paetongtarn also presented garlands to the revered Luang Pho Somprattana Buddha image at Wat Rong Wua Daeng, and planted a Tung Lanna flag symbolizing her birth year for good luck.
A Family Affair Rooted in Local Legacy
The prime minister was joined by her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, her husband Pitaka Suksawat, and Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. Reflecting on her deep personal connection to the area, Ms. Paetongtarn shared memories of stories her father told about growing up in San Kamphaeng and working in local shops selling coffee and shaved ice.
“Coming back here always fills me with warmth and nostalgia,” she said. “It’s a special feeling to walk the same streets and celebrate with the people of my father’s hometown.”
She encouraged the public to celebrate Songkran joyfully and safely, and to take time to reconnect with loved ones before returning to their daily routines.
The prime minister also browsed and supported local vendors, enjoying handwoven textiles, indigo-dyed clothing, silverware, and ceramics. Local youth performed for her, and her father, Mr. Thaksin, was seen shopping and engaging with the community.
“The atmosphere was warm and welcoming,” said Mr. Jirayu. “The prime minister was truly delighted to greet visitors and take photos with them.”
