University backs Rayong village for sustainable tourism
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Thammasat University has been helping a seaside community in the eastern coastal province of Rayong to establish itself as a sustainable tourism destination.
“Our goal is to ensure Pak Nam Prasae can attract visitors without having to give up its tradition and culture,” Assoc Professor Jearanai Lekuthai, director of the university’s Institute of Intellectual Property and Business Incubator, said yesterday.
The project also emphasises social responsibility and the conservation of natural resources. “We have done that by engaging locals and promoting sustainable measures as well as integrated management in the community,” she said.
Sukit Jaitrong participated in the programme by starting up Ketkeaow home-stay services.
“I’ve been taking guests for about 15 months already,” he said.
Sukit used to live off fishing, but his income sank sharply over the past 15 years. “Then Thammasat came along with its good project, so I agreed to join in,” he said.
The programme kicked off in 2012, offering knowledge management and help in applying science and technology.
Thammasat decided to develop Pak Nam Prasae as a tourist attraction because of its beautiful scenery, well-preserved heritage and long history. Pak Nam Prasae is in Klaeng district, 64 kilometres from Rayong town. It spans hills and beaches along the Gulf of Thailand. The village has what it takes to appeal to holidaymakers, especially if it is well developed.
Today, Sukit has seven cottages for home-stay guests. His facility can take up to 150 guests, mainly Thais.
Jearanai said Prasae has already made its name as a tourist spot.
“Economic, social and environmental measures are also in place to ensure sustainable development,” she said. “We hope the community will become a model for sustainable tourism areas.”
Partners in this initiative include academic departments, such as the Architecture and Planning and the Law faculties at Thammasat, and companies such as JP Morgan.
