Suphakit Nuntavorakarn is a researcher at the Healthy Public Policy Foundation, an NGO and independent research arm of the Health Ministry that monitors the state's development policies.
With a bachelor's degree in economics from Kasetsart University and master's in renewable energy policy, Suphakit chose not to pursue a career as a policymaker in the energy industry, but as a researcher who relies on a deep understanding of economics. Suphakit's research focuses on the effects of public development policies concerning health care, energy, social welfare, community and the environment. Here Suphakit shares his reading list, for work and pleasure.
_ Anchalee Kongrut
What are you currently reading?
I'm juggling two books. The first is The Social Cost Of Electricity, which I'm reading as part of my current research project, a comparative analysis of renewable energy and traditional energy. For after-work reading, the book at my bedside is Twelve Years, Two Months And Four Days For Dr Puey Ungpakorn As Governor Of Bank Of Thailand. Despite covering serious economic policies and the workings of the Bank of Thailand, the book is captivating for its prose, and of course, the content.
What book have you always wanted to read but still haven't? And why haven't you read it?
My Sweet Orange Tree, by Jose Mauro de Vasconcelos [the Thai translation is titled Ton Som Saen Rak]. I would assign the blame to my brother who refused to lend the book to me. I recently managed to obtain a copy at a book fair but still haven't read it.
Is there a book you've started but never managed to finish?
Khu Mue Karn Pattana Dek [Manual Guide To Child Development]. The book describes and provides knowledge on child development from the first day to six years old. When my first child was born, I managed to read this book until our baby got to six months old. Now we've had a second child and I still cannot finish it!
As an expert on public policy and renewable energy, what is your favourite book about the subject?
My favourite is a book on community research, Korn Pan Din Ja Klai Pen Eun [Before The Land Changes]. It is about experiences of local communities participating in the Environmental Impact Assessment hearing on development projects in southern Thailand. It tells readers about the spirit of Aow Tha Sala villagers in Nakhon Si Thammarat who are trying to protect their homeland from the development of a deep sea port and a mega scale power plant.
On energy, The Fukushima Nuclear Accident Independent Investigation Commission, which presents the findings of the investigating commission appointed by Japan's parliament. It goes beyond whodunit-style reportage. The findings touch on the bureaucratic, legal and cultural aspects of the Fukushima nuclear crisis. It also offers recommendations that may help prevent similar accidents.
