_BANGKOK, 7 JULY 2025_ – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in partnership with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) and various private sector stakeholders, has launched an initiative named 'Village to the World.' This program is designed to transform local communities into exemplars of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in practice.

The initiative is a key component of TAT's strategy to designate sustainable tourism as a fundamental element of Thailand’s long-term development.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaiboow, TAT Governor, emphasized that 'Village to the World' transcends a mere tourism project, describing it as a 'new blueprint for Thailand’s sustainable development — powered by community, backed by business, and measured by real impact.'

The official launch event was attended by various stakeholders, including Dr. Soraphol Tulayasathien from SET, Mr. Issara Riutrakulpaiboon from the Department of Cultural Promotion under the Ministry of Tourism, and senior executives from publicly listed companies alongside community representatives and media.

Central to this initiative is the concept of 'ESG Partnership for Impact,' which seeks to align local development with business objectives under a robust ESG framework.

This involves matching SET-listed companies with seven prototype communities across five provinces to collaboratively create sustainable models that deliver balanced economic, social, and environmental outcomes.

In Chiang Mai, for instance, AIS is aiding digital skill development in the Mae Soon Noi and Doi Wiang communities.

In Nan province, SCG and Yournique are implementing upstream circular economy models in the Pa Laeo Luang community.

Similarly, BAFS is facilitating the connection of agriculture, safety, and sustainable tourism in the Ban Mung Nuea community in Phitsanulok, while the Ban Amphoe community in Chon Buri is focusing on long-term marine waste management solutions.

Additionally, in Lampang, Thai AirAsia, in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Promotion, is developing new cultural tourism routes in the Tha Ma-O and Pong Sanuk communities.

These selected communities are positioned to serve as national exemplars of 'sustainability that starts at the local level' through effective public-private collaboration.

Their ongoing advancements could act as a catalyst for similar initiatives across the country, highlighting the potential for community-led tourism to evolve into a strategic platform for enduring, impactful partnerships.

The initiative signifies a movement away from traditional Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices towards a model of shared value, focusing on building sustainable futures rather than merely giving back to communities.

Each program is strategically aligned with local potentials, aiming to create a scalable template for national sustainability.

Furthermore, TAT's efforts are buoyed by partnerships with leading travel and tourism platforms and airlines, including Gother, Local Alike, Yournique, SiamRise, Friday Trip, Guide Guru, and Thai AirAsia, enhancing accessibility to these communities for global travelers.

The TAT International Public Relations Division is actively collaborating with both traditional and digital media outlets to promote Thailand as a premier tourism destination on the world stage.