Opposition MPs in Thailand are calling for better public safety measures in the wake of the recent shooting at Siam Paragon shopping mall. They are urging the government to implement an emergency alert system and review gun control laws to prevent further tragedies. #publicsafety #emergencyalerts #guncontrol #tourism #Thailand
The Need for an Emergency Alert System
Following the recent shooting at Siam Paragon shopping mall that claimed two lives and injured five others, opposition MPs have been advocating for the implementation of a cell broadcasting alert system to improve public safety. Parit Wacharasindhu, an MP of the main opposition Move Forward Party, emphasized the importance of such a system during a House meeting, stating that it could provide timely warnings and help people stay safe during emergencies like the mall shooting.
He noted that during the incident, those inside the mall did not receive any emergency alerts from the government. Instead, they had to rely on SMS alerts from the private sector and information circulated on social media. Parit urged the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to speed up the implementation of a cell broadcasting alert system.
Gun Control Laws: Time for a Review
In addition to the emergency alert system, Parit called for a comprehensive review of gun-related laws. He suggested restricting firearm access, increasing crackdowns on illegal firearm sales, and strengthening background checks for gun owners. His goal is to prevent further tragedies like the mall shooting from occurring.
Gp Capt Anudit Nakornthap, the deputy leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party, echoed this sentiment. He questioned the enforcement of the firearms control law and suggested that it may need amending. Pointing out that the law has been in use for over 76 years, Anudit recommended reviewing and upgrading it, particularly the section concerning the passing on of firearms to an owner’s heirs.
Turning Talk into Action
Anudit expressed his hope that the government would take serious action to address the issue of gun control. He acknowledged that discussions about stricter gun laws arise every time a tragedy occurs, but they rarely turn into action. He also supported the idea of an emergency alert system, emphasizing that it should provide guidance to the public on how to stay safe during emergencies.
Restoring Confidence in Public Safety for Tourists
As tourism plays a vital role in Thailand’s economy, Anudit urged the government to restore confidence in public safety among tourists. Implementing effective safety measures, such as an emergency alert system and stronger gun control laws, can help protect both locals and tourists and maintain the country’s position as a popular tourist destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are opposition MPs in Thailand advocating for in response to the recent mall shooting?
Following the recent shooting at Siam Paragon shopping mall, opposition MPs are calling for better public safety measures. They are urging the government to implement an emergency alert system and review gun control laws to prevent further tragedies.
Q2: How does the proposed cell broadcasting alert system aim to improve public safety?
The cell broadcasting alert system aims to provide timely warnings and help people stay safe during emergencies like the mall shooting. During the incident, people inside the mall did not receive any emergency alerts from the government, instead relying on SMS alerts from the private sector and information circulated on social media. A proper alert system would ensure people receive critical information as quickly as possible.
Q3: What are some suggestions made by opposition MPs regarding gun control laws in Thailand?
Opposition MPs have called for a comprehensive review of gun-related laws, suggesting restricting firearm access, increasing crackdowns on illegal firearm sales, and strengthening background checks for gun owners. They also recommended reviewing and upgrading the firearms control law, particularly the section concerning the passing on of firearms to an owner’s heirs, in order to prevent further tragedies like the mall shooting.
