Phuket Reviews Jewish New Year Event in Patong Over Safety Concerns

Phuket –

Phuket authorities have requested organizers of the upcoming Rosh Hashanah event in Patong to reassess the event due to concerns regarding public safety, the community, and tourism.

Our previous story:

A local activist group, Protect Phuket Land, has formally petitioned provincial authorities to reconsider the upcoming Jewish New Year festival, Rosh Hashana, scheduled for September 11th, 2026.

Now for the update:

On September 8, 2026, Phuket Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom has assigned Deputy Governors Police Captain Khettharat Chansilp and Romdon Haji-Awae to lead discussions with security agencies, administrative officials, police, and other stakeholders after receiving a petition opposing the event, which is scheduled to begin on September 11.

​Provincial authorities noted that Patong is a major international tourism area and that large gatherings require thorough risk assessments. They highlighted concerns about potential disruptions by third parties that could affect residents, visitors, and Phuket’s reputation as a tourism destination.

​Deputy Governor Khettharat emphasized that the province prioritizes public order and the safety of residents and tourists, applying the same laws and standards to all groups without discrimination.

​Police stated that security measures will be determined by the situation and are intended to protect the public, tourists, and all event participants, without favoring any group.

​After the meeting, Phuket authorities asked organizers to review the concerns and notify the province of their intended actions by September 9. This will enable officials to further assess the situation and prepare appropriate measures.

​The province stated it will seek to balance the right to organize events with the need to maintain public safety, order, and confidence in tourism.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

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Goong Nang Suksawat
Goong Nang is a News Translator who has worked professionally for multiple news organizations in Thailand for more than nine years and has worked with The Pattaya News for seven years. Specializes primarily in local news for Phuket, Pattaya, and also some national news, with emphasis on translation between Thai to English and working as an intermediary between reporters and English-speaking writers. Originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, but lives in Phuket and Krabi except when commuting between the three.