Koh Samui is actively safeguarding its youth from e-cigarettes through a collaborative effort between the Youth Vision Institute and Koh Samui Municipality.
They recently educated students from four municipal schools on the dangers and legal consequences of e-cigarettes, aiming to foster a safe, smart, and sustainable island.
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Background and Context
The increasing prevalence of smoking, especially the use of e-cigarettes among youth, is a growing concern in Thailand. Recent data from the National Statistical Office in 2024 indicates that the Southern region, including Surat Thani province where Koh Samui is located, records some of the highest smoking rates in the country. The influx of international tourists, some of whom may not adhere strictly to local laws regarding tobacco and e-cigarette use, further complicates local efforts to shield young people from these risky behaviors.
Partnership Between Youth Vision Institute and Koh Samui Municipality
To address these challenges, the Youth Vision Institute of Thailand (YTI), with the support of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), has joined forces with Koh Samui Municipality. The joint initiative seeks to improve health literacy, raise awareness about legal and health risks tied to smoking and e-cigarettes, and monitor the evolving situation within the island’s youth population.
Knowledge Development Event at Municipal Schools
On November 24, 2025, a significant event took place at Municipal School 1 Wat Lamai. Mr. Amnat Chotchuang, Deputy Mayor of Koh Samui, alongside Mr. Pacharaporn Prajuablarp, Secretary-General of YTI, spearheaded a campaign focusing on the adverse effects of e-cigarettes for students from grades four to six across four municipal schools. The event was also attended by local government leaders, school administrators, and faculty members, signaling strong community support for this initiative.
Key Focus Areas
- Legal Education: Students received in-depth explanations of the legal consequences of using or possessing e-cigarettes, with an emphasis on Thailand’s strict regulations against such behavior.
- Health Literacy: The program aimed to equip students with knowledge about the harmful effects of both traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes, emphasizing the increased risks for young people whose bodies and brains are still developing.
- Preventive Measures: The initiative helped students understand how to build defenses against peer pressure, resist marketing tactics, and make informed health decisions.
Symbolic Declarations and Ongoing Monitoring
In addition to educational sessions, students from each participating school engaged in symbolic activities to declare their campuses as smoke-free and e-cigarette-free zones. This action reinforces the commitment to creating safe learning environments while fostering a sense of responsibility among the young participants.
Broader Vision: A Smart and Sustainable Samui
Under the themes “Samui, Always Safe” and “Smart & Sustainable Island – A Livable Samui for All,” the municipality is working towards transforming Samui into a model community. By focusing on smart growth, sustainability, and health-consciousness, Koh Samui aims to provide a livable, safe, and prosperous environment benefiting residents and visitors alike. Community-driven initiatives, such as the partnership with YTI, are crucial components of this broader vision, ensuring the protection and education of the island’s youth for a healthier future.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ: Collaborative Efforts to Combat E-Cigarette Use Among Koh Samui Youth
What are the main goals of the collaboration between the Youth Vision Institute and Koh Samui Municipality?
The collaboration aims to protect Koh Samui’s youth from e-cigarette use by improving health literacy, raising awareness of health and legal risks associated with smoking and e-cigarettes, and fostering a safe, smart, and sustainable island environment.
How are students educated about the risks and consequences of e-cigarette use?
Through school-based campaigns, students receive comprehensive information on the legal consequences of possessing or using e-cigarettes, the health dangers – especially for young, developing bodies – and develop strategies to resist peer pressure and tobacco marketing.
What lasting impact do these initiatives have on the Koh Samui community?
These initiatives create smoke-free and e-cigarette-free school zones, promote student responsibility, and strengthen the island’s commitment to sustainability and public health, helping build a stronger, healthier, and more livable community for both residents and visitors.
