Bangkok: “Phumtham,” acting as Prime Minister, has praised the products from the five southern border provinces, highlighting the creative initiative “Taste of Southern” as a significant step forward in promoting local identity products. This initiative aims to enhance value through Thai Soft Power.
According to Thai News Agency, before the cabinet meeting, Pol. Lt. Col. Wanpong Kotcharak, Secretary-General of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC), along with executives and officials, met with Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. The meeting aimed to showcase the ‘Taste of Southern, Local Identity of Southern Border Provinces’ exhibition, which represents the cultural diversity and wisdom of the region. The approach focuses on advancing the creative economy to sustainably improve the quality of life in the area. The event was also attended by Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat, Deputy Minister of Finance, Ms. Thirat Samretwanich, Deputy Minister of Interior, and Mr. Decha Isara Khaothong, Deputy Minister of Interior.
Mr. Phumtham received an overview of the ‘Taste of Southern’ exhibition, organized by the SBPAC to introduce products from the southern border provinces to both national and international markets. The SBPAC selected over 30 prominent local products from the Southern Border Provinces for display, including food and beverages, clothing, textiles, handicrafts, accessories, cosmetics, household products, and items from the Arts and Crafts Center. Notable products include batik, palanging, pateh, yanlipao bags, kratut, health shoes made from rubber, bird cages, and Beramas kites, with food and beverage products presented in baskets.
After reviewing the exhibit, Mr. Phumtham engaged with the representatives of the southern border product manufacturers, acknowledging their skills and creativity. He stressed the government’s commitment to fostering added value through soft power that embodies Thai identity, particularly in the culturally diverse southern border region, which holds potential for developing a robust grassroots economy.