The Nation reported that Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra is committed to modernizing the image of Buddhism, promoting understanding between monks and Buddhists, and calling on civil servants to set an example.
Speaking on social media on July 17, Ms. Paetongtarn stated that the wrongdoings of some monks have recently caused widespread confusion and eroded the beliefs of Buddhists, calling it "not just a personal matter, but an important turning point".
Ms. Paetongtarn, who is also the head of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, said that the cabinet had assigned her the ministry, along with the National Buddhist Office and the Ministry of Education, to launch a comprehensive campaign.
This initiative aims to disseminate accurate knowledge about Thai Buddhist culture, foster a deeper understanding between Buddhists and Lam Khoang, and promote traditional Thai ideology to promote ethics and promote harmonious coexistence in society.
In the Ministry of Culture, Ms. Paetongtarn discussed with senior officials to propose sustainable strategies to rebuild public trust.
She emphasized that the strategy will "not reject social change, but accept and adapt consciously".
The main focus will be to " stibilize and simplify the transmission of the image of Buddhism", ensuring that this religion is easy to access for the younger generation.
This will include creating opportunities for young people to approach Buddhist teachings in a way that is truly connected to their contemporary lifestyle.
Ms. Paetongtarn ended her speech by calling on all government officials and civil servants to become positive role models in the community.
She emphasized that the restoration of Buddhist belief must truly come from the common understanding, sincerity and common efforts of all people involved.
Previously, on July 16, Thai authorities announced that they had arrested a woman nicknamed "Ms Golf" on charges of luring, having sex and secretly filming at least 9 monks, then using these sensitive photos and videos to blackmail.
According to the Special Investigation Agency of Thailand (DSI), from 2021 to present, Ms Golf has illegally profited about 385 million baht (equivalent to nearly 12 million USD) by threatening to publish clips, forcing monks to transfer money to cover up. Some of the victims were pillars of famous pagodas in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the Central provinces of Thailand.
