Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha gave moral support Thursday to rocker Artiwara Kongmalai, aka "Toon Bodyslam", for his 2,191-kilometre charity run from Yala to Chiang Rai to raise funds for 11 state-run hospitals nationwide.
Government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the prime minister thanked the rock star for his efforts and wished him success and a safe journey.
Gen Prayut also expressed his concerns over Artiwara's health, suggesting he take plenty of nutrients and get enough sleep. The premier also instructed authorities along routes where Artiwara would pass to give him help. Lt Gen Sansern was speaking after Artiwara on Wednesday began his charity run from Yala's Betong district to Chiang Rai's Mae Sai district.
On the first day, Artiwara ran 55.55 kilometres and raised over 47.2 million baht. He ran for 47.5 kilometres in Yala's Bannang Sata district Thursday, his second day. He is expected to complete his run on Dec 25. The premier also suggested young people follow the rocker's example and take part in constructive social activities, Lt Gen Sansern said.
In December last year, Artiwara completed a 400km charity marathon to raise funds for Bang Saphan Hospital in Prachuap Khiri Khan, raising over 70 million baht. In March, he joined another charity run and helped raise funds for a building at Siriraj Hospital.
His latest charity project, the longest run of his life -- 2,191km over 55 days -- aims to raise 700 million baht. It has sparked criticism on social media of the Public Health Ministry's budget management which has left cash flow problems at many hospitals. Public Health Minister Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn said officials will meet on Monday to examine a report on cash flow problems over the last fiscal year that ended on Sept 30.
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