The Phuket Culture Office is investigating various properties in Phuket that are allegedly using religious objects in an improper and unsuitable way, following the discovery that a restaurateur in Patong was using the head of Buddha?s image as a water fountain.

The Chief of Phuket Culture Office Thawichart Intararit said one of the main reasons for the inappropriate uses of Buddha?s image was because Phuket was a tourist destination and is very multicultural these days, ?I?m worried that foreigners do not truly understand Thai culture and what things should and should not be done,? he said.

It is generally accepted in Thai culture that images of Buddha should be placed in a spot that is above head-level and should never be treated with anything less than reverence and respect.

?We try to employ rigorous checks around the island but do need sometimes need to rely on reports by the general public,? said Khun Thawichart.

The Phuket Culture Office is also responsible for ensuring that obscene and pornographic pictures are not distributed or shown anywhere in public, which includes big and small billboards, internet cafes and karaoke bars.

The Phuket Culture Office is therefore appealing to every company to install CCTV cameras so that they may monitor inappropriate ?internet searches? of their staff.

Khun Thawichart added that everyone including the local media has to get involved in order to solve this problem. If you believe someone is misusing the image of Buddha or looking at inappropriate websites contact: 076 214 860 or tvhkt@loxinfo.co.th