The opening ceremony for the second ‘One District, One Creative Space’ activity in Mueang Phuket District was held at the Chartered Bank Intersection public park in Phuket Town yesterday (Jan 18). The event was presided over by Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn.
Also attending were Phuket Provincial Culture Officer Puangpaka Chaowai, government officials, community leaders, local residents and tourists.
The event forms part of Phuket’s broader “Community Tourism, Local Way of Life” promotion programme and is designed to translate national cultural policy into practical, community-level outcomes through the creation of so-called “Living Cultural Spaces”.
Officials explained that the initiative is being driven under the Ministry of Culture’s ‘Thai Thai’ policy framework, which focuses on using cultural identity as a foundation for sustainable economic development.
The policy is structured around four key pillars: preserving and utilising traditional cultural capital, upgrading communities through contemporary cultural activities, offering participatory cultural experiences for visitors, and strengthening cooperation between communities, the private sector and artist networks.
Governor Nirat said the project reflects a growing recognition that culture should not be viewed solely as a legacy of the past, but as a living asset capable of generating income and improving quality of life.
“The creation of Living Cultural Spaces demonstrates how cultural policy can be applied in real terms,” Governor Nirat said. “Culture can be developed into economic power, supporting local communities while aligning with Phuket’s vision of high-value tourism.”
Activities at the opening event included cultural performances, demonstrations of traditional crafts, the sale of local food and Phuket-style desserts, and skill-building workshops for young people. Organisers said the activities were designed to encourage learning, participation and interaction between residents and visitors.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to participating groups, while attendees were able to experience a range of cultural performances throughout the evening, creating what officials described as a lively and educational atmosphere.
The opening follows the province’s December announcement that three districts had been selected as pilot locations for the ‘One District, One Creative Space’ project. In addition to the Chartered Bank area in Phuket Old Town, activities are also planned for Khon Dee Market in Thalang District and Kathu Shrine and Kamala Market in Kathu District.
Provincial officials have previously stated that the project aims to establish creative cultural spaces in every district, support the creative economy, strengthen local identity and deliver tangible results from the ‘Thai Thai’ policy.
The initiative is scheduled to run from January to March, with each district expected to host two creative events during the period. Further details of upcoming activities will be announced by district organisers.