BANGKOK — 16 April 2026, Scout volunteers assisted travellers during the Songkran holiday period, providing support to both local residents and foreign tourists at major transport hubs.
The programme, carried out on 9–10 April, was organised by the Office of the Scout, Red Cross Youth and Student Affairs Division under the Education Ministry as part of the “SCOUT DNA” initiative, also known as the “Smile Mission”.
Dr. Warat Pruksataweekul, deputy permanent secretary of the Education Ministry and acting secretary-general of the National Scout Office, said the initiative mobilised scouts, girl guides and scout leaders to facilitate travel for people returning to their home provinces during the long holiday.
Volunteers were stationed at key transport terminals, including Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Chatuchak Bus Terminal, Ekkamai Bus Terminal and the Southern Bus Terminal on Borommaratchachonnani Road.
Their duties included assisting with luggage, providing directions, offering translation support for foreign visitors and coordinating other forms of assistance.
The initiative received positive feedback from both Thai travellers and international tourists. A senior executive of the Transport Company observed the operation and praised the volunteers for their ability to assist passengers.
Warat said foreign tourists, particularly at Ekkamai Bus Terminal, benefited from the support, noting that many volunteers were able to communicate effectively in English, while others used translation applications to assist visitors.
He added that the volunteers took pride in fulfilling the scout pledge to help others at all times, while also serving as good hosts for visitors to Thailand.
Participants have expressed interest in continuing the initiative annually, citing both the enjoyment of the activity and the opportunity to contribute to society, while travellers have also responded positively to the services provide
