Bangkok: Major changes are on the horizon for Bangkok as a significant legal overhaul is proposed for the first time in four decades, aiming to restructure the city's work, finances, and personnel to enhance its potential as a livable hub. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has submitted amendments to increase its powers and revenue, following extensive public consultations since 2025. The proposal now awaits further action from the Ministry of Interior.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekavaranyu Amrapal, spokesperson for the BMA, announced progress in revising the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Act B.E. 2528 (1985), known as the Bangkok Act. The BMA has been working to update the law to better suit current circumstances and improve administrative efficiency after more than 40 years. The draft Act was submitted to the Minister of Interior on December 12, 2025, for approval in principle, and will proceed to the legislative review committee before reaching the Cabinet Secretariat.
Mr. Ekavaranyu highlighted that the amendment focuses on restructuring Bangkok's administrative framework to make it more modern and flexible. The proposed changes concentrate on three primary areas. In terms of work, the aim is to adjust powers and responsibilities to better address the challenges of modern urban life, increase problem-solving flexibility for citizens, and enhance integration with relevant government agencies.
Financially, the proposal seeks to improve revenue collection methods to match the current economic context, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of budget allocation for urban development and improving citizens' quality of life. Regarding personnel, the amendment intends to restructure the political civil service by dividing the administration into city and district levels.
Throughout 2025, the BMA engaged the public in consultations on the draft law, both online and in person. Creative activities, such as board games, were organized to engage all segments of the population, particularly young people, to gather diverse perspectives on improving city laws. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the future of Bangkok reflects the needs and ideas of its citizens.