Bangkok: Nine exemplary community leaders shared their experiences in stopping the use of alcohol for social purposes, employing strategies to encourage villagers to quit drinking and build better families and societies.
According to Thai News Agency, the Alcohol-Free Network organized a seminar titled "Leaders the Community Needs: Leaders with a Diamond Heart" via the "Alcohol-Free Network" Facebook page, in commemoration of "Village Headman and Subdistrict Headman Day, August 10th." Nine exemplary community leaders from across the country participated: Mrs. Buakhai Busdee, Village Headman of Non Mueang Village, Moo 9, Ku Santarat Subdistrict, Na Dun District, Maha Sarakham Province; Mr. Warinthorn Premjai, Village Headman of Na Prong Village, Chaiyaphum Province; Mr. Aphinan Saensena, Subdistrict Headman of Ban Ko Subdistrict, Phrom Khiri District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province; Mr. Suphachok Chanthawong, Suphan Buri Province; Mr. Sompong Chitsee, Village Headman of Khao Samor Khaeng Village, Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok Province; Mr. Sompol Rodprapai, Pattani Province; Mr. Koraknok Sukphol, Sing Buri Province; Mr. Yongyut Charoen, Village Headman of Mai Pho Ngam Village, Wiang Chai District, Chiang Rai Province; and Mr. Mongkol Phim Siri, Village Headman of Khlong Buri Village, Nong Bon Subdistrict, Mueang District, Sa Kaeo Province. The event was moderated by Mr. Theera Wacharaprannee, Director of the Alcohol-Free Network.
Mr. Aphinan Saensena recounted his transformation from a heavy drinker to an advocate for alcohol abstinence. Encouraged by a district officer during the Buddhist Lent, he found significant health improvements after quitting alcohol. His efforts led to the development of a community drug rehabilitation center and the promotion of alcohol-free tourism, earning him the prestigious Golden Pin Award for Village Headman.
Mr. Yongyut Charoen shared his journey of overcoming alcohol addiction after a near-death experience during his grandson's birthday. Joining a campaign promoting abstinence during Buddhist Lent, he successfully quit drinking and now advocates for alcohol-free funerals, saving money for his family and gaining community acceptance.
Mr. Warinthorn Premjai highlighted his journey to sobriety, inspired by elder community leaders and his love for family. By quitting alcohol, he believes in leading by example, improving community orderliness, and reducing local issues.
Mr. Sompong Chitsee emphasized the importance of community support in tackling alcohol abuse, integrating pledges to quit alcohol with traditional festivals and focusing on synergy between "Home, Temple, and Government."
Mr. Mongkol Phim Siri, committed to abstaining from alcohol since childhood, now campaigns for alcohol abstinence in his community. He works with health volunteers to create a "community map," identifying high-risk households and addressing their needs.
Mrs. Buakhai Busdee shared her successful interventions in helping neighbors quit alcohol, leading to family reunification and community happiness. She also promotes alcohol-free weddings, contributing to a significant decrease in alcohol-related issues in her village.
These community leaders' stories highlight a collective effort to foster alcohol-free environments, improve public health, and promote sustainable community development.