Thailand has made great achievements in using its cultural soft power to promote the country’s image, which in turn has helped to boost tourism and local economies. For this reason, in 2016, we established the “Model Community” campaign, and this year, 10 communities were chosen as models for others to follow.
Plaques honoring the ten municipalities’ selection as examples of community tourism were recently presented to representatives from those areas. The Khunnatham neighborhood of Krabi, Ban Mueang Ruang of Chiang Rai, Wat Sai Khaoy of Pattani, and Phuket Old City of Phuket all received plaques from Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha.
Other villages that were recognized as models include Ban Phu in Muk Da Han, Ban Bo Nam Ron in Yala, Wat Bang Nam Phueng in Samut Prakan, the Surin community of Wat Nong Bua, the Ban Tham Klong Phlae in Nong Bua Lamphu region, and the Udon Thani neighborhood of Ban Chiang.
The prime minister praised the ten municipalities for serving as models for other areas to emulate as they get ready to welcome tourists. In addition, he said, the government is capitalizing on Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and abundant biodiversity to boost the economic worth of cultural tourism. Further, he stated that 25,000 American towns are already set up to welcome tourists interested in cultural experiences.
