Buddhists demand monk's lounge at airport

Bangkok Post, Nov 13, 2006

Bangkok, Thailand -- The National Buddhism Office of Thailand wants its new Suvarnabhumi Airport to install a monks' lounge in the passenger terminal, citing regular travel by senior monks as a reason.

Manas Parkpoom, a director of the office, said it had received complaints and suggestions from several parties who pointed out that monks often regularly fly on official missions and it was inappropriate for them to sit with the general public while waiting for flights.

The Young Buddhist Association of Thailand was identified as one group which has demanded a special lounge for monks at the airport.

Mr Manas said he had written to Somchai Sawasdeepon, general manager of the airport, and AoT to ask for the special lounge. If it was possible, there should also be a Buddhist worship room at the airport terminal, he said.

At present, there is an Islamic worship room in the passenger terminal.
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