Politics
Major Administrative Reshuffle at Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has announced a significant reshuffle of 34 senior-level officials, including key appointments within the Department of National Parks.
On September 24, 2026, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) officially announced a large-scale administrative reshuffle involving 34 senior positions at the C9 level. According to reports from Khaosod Online, Permanent Secretary Ravewan Phuridej signed the orders to fill various leadership roles across the ministry's departments.
Key appointments include Prateep Heumpayak, formerly an Assistant Permanent Secretary, who has been named Deputy Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. Additionally, Anan Pinnoy has been appointed as the Director of the National Parks Division, succeeding the previous official who has retired. Other appointments include Udomsak Palakawong na Ayudhya, who will lead the Forest Land Management Division.
For residents and travelers, these changes are primarily internal administrative adjustments. While these leadership shifts may influence the long-term management policies of Thailand’s national parks and conservation areas, there are no immediate changes to park access, entry fees, or visitor regulations. The public should monitor official announcements from the Department of National Parks for any future policy shifts that could impact tourism or conservation activities. At this time, the full list of all 34 personnel changes and their specific operational impacts remain subject to further departmental clarification.