PHUKET, THAILAND – Phuket received the highest national anti-corruption rating as provincial leaders pledged a strict zero-tolerance stance toward graft.
Island province awarded ‘Excellent’ in national rating
The province of Phuket achieved the top grade of “Excellent” in Thailand’s national anti-corruption assessment, according to local authorities. Officials said the result underscored their determination to combat the shadow economy and strengthen clean governance across the island.
Ceremony marks International Anti-Corruption Day
On International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December, senior provincial figures gathered at the Phuket Provincial Hall for a formal ceremony. Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn led the event under the motto “Zero Tolerance: Thais will not tolerate corruption.” Before the local proceedings, participants watched a nationwide live broadcast featuring an address by Suchart Trakulkesemsuk, head of the national anti-corruption commission.
Governor warns of risks to tourism image
In his speech, the governor stressed Phuket’s special responsibility as a world-famous tourist destination, saying corruption must have no place on the island.
“It can damage economic confidence, the national reputation and sustainable development,”
said Nirat Pongsitthaworn, governor. He added that cleanliness in administration was a key location factor for the province.
Public pledge against corruption
Following his remarks, the governor led attending officials and representatives of civil society in a formal pledge to fight corruption. The commitment was presented as part of a broader effort to embed a culture of integrity and public accountability throughout Phuket’s institutions.
Six agencies honored with top ITA score
The highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of outstanding government bodies. Six government agencies in Phuket received honorary certificates after earning the top “Excellent” score in the ITA Rating 2025. In addition, 19 agencies were honored for their strong performance in integrating anti-corruption education into school and institutional curricula.
Signal that transparency is rewarded
Officials said the awards sent a clear message that transparent administration in Phuket would be encouraged and rewarded. The recognition was framed as part of an ongoing effort to build trust between the public and state institutions.
Strategy meeting for 2026 implementation
Later the same day, the provincial committee held its first meeting for the year 2026 to discuss implementation of the National Master Plan against Corruption. The priorities set for the coming year were prevention, stronger oversight and the creation of a society that does not tolerate corruption. Authorities said this approach was intended not only to maintain Phuket’s high standards but to further raise them.
Boost for Thailand’s broader image
Officials described the award and firm statements from Phuket’s leadership as more than symbolic politics. For a country often criticized in the Corruption Perceptions Index, the island province was portrayed as a “beacon” of progress. The top rating was expected to strengthen confidence among tourists and investors in Thailand’s administration on the key holiday island, with good governance presented as beneficial for both reputation and the wider economy.