BANGKOK — Independent Bangkok gubernatorial candidate Mallika Boonmeetrakul Mahasuk on 18 June pledged to transform parts of the capital into a “Street Food Paradise” operating seven days a week, 24 hours a day, arguing that informal food vending should be expanded and better organised rather than restricted.
Mallika, who is running under ballot number 14, made the remarks while campaigning in the Ban Krua community area in Ratchathewi district, visiting Ban Krua Nuea, Ban Krua Tai and Ban Krua Tawan Ok communities.
She said her policy would focus on expanding designated street food trading areas while maintaining order and cleanliness through community-based agreements.
“When the governor is Mallika, we will revive the Street Food Paradise,” she said. “We will increase vending space on pavements instead of pushing vendors into hidden corners where customers cannot reach them.”
She said any problem areas would be resolved through public consultation, stressing that vendors should be able to sell in designated zones with clear community identity and order.
Mallika said street food should reflect local character, citing Ban Krua as an example, while maintaining uniform standards of cleanliness and organisation.
She added that nightlife activity should also be supported, arguing that Bangkok operates around the clock and demand for food continues late into the night.
“People don’t stop eating at 18:00. Some go out for late-night meals at 10pm or even later. We must support those groups,” she said, adding that the concept would form part of her 14-policy framework for Bangkok.
Mallika said vendors must maintain hygiene standards, including cleanliness and proper waste disposal, warning against practices such as dumping oil into drains.
“We will remove anyone who does not comply. Go and improve first,” she said.
She also criticised informal payments, saying city enforcement officers should not be involved in corruption and that rules must be consistently enforced.
“The only way society can coexist is through fair rules. The city’s role is to stimulate economic activity, especially in times of crisis,” she said.
Mallika also pledged improved infrastructure in communities, including 24-hour lighting, saying residents should not have to worry about basic urban safety issues.
