(August 14, 2025) — The Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs, Phuket Rajabhat University (PKRU), in collaboration with Chalong Subdistrict Municipality, organized the “Chalong Sustainability in Our Hands” project to promote sustainable development for women in Chalong Subdistrict. The event brought together local leaders and community enterprises as part of the “Smart Center Development Project for Southern Local Development in Tourism and Creative Economy” for Fiscal Year 2025 (PKRU Reinventing). The initiative aims to enhance the value of local products through the integration of creative economy knowledge and the capacity building of local entrepreneurs.

This program featured exhibitions and product demonstrations from the Chalong Subdistrict community, showcasing items developed under the project for sale and promotion, with the goal of boosting income for target groups. In addition, representatives from various partner organizations with expertise in product development joined a panel discussion on “Enhancing Human Resource Skills to Increase the Value of Chalong’s Signature Batik Products.” 

Panelists included:

1.Mr. Samran Jindaphon, Mayor of Chalong Subdistrict Municipality.

2.Mr. Sathien Phosri, Regional Manager, Robinson Lifestyle, Central Retail Group

3.Ms. Kanokwan Kaewuthai, Assistant to the President for Academic Services

4.Mr. Roengsak Boonkuea, President of Chalong Nong Mai Group

5.Ms. Kamonsri Itthipornchai, Advisor to the Batik and Tie-Dye Group, Ban Wat Mai Community Enterprise

6.Ms. Jitchaya Ritthirak, President of Chalong Subdistrict Municipality Women’s Association and President of Le Phu Phat Group

The panel was moderated by Mr. Decha Seedu-ga, Director of The Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs, PKRU, who facilitated knowledge sharing, reflection, and identification of community needs to guide future project implementation in Chalong area.

The “Chalong Sustainability in Our Hands” project marks another milestone in academic–community collaboration, successfully elevating the value of local products, expanding market opportunities, and fostering a deep sense of pride among community members.