The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Development Administration (DASTA), a public organization, in collaboration with the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and the Thailand Creative Cities Network, launched TCCN 2023 to promote creative cities in Thailand. The event aimed to brainstorm, exchange case studies, and find ways to drive creative cities in line with the 20-year national strategy. It also prepared to bring network cities together to explore approaches for sustainable city revival under the concept of "sustainable city revival." The event was held from July 6-7, 2023, at the World Heritage Hall, Red Rice Mill, Hub Ho Hin, Songkhla Province.
The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Development Administration (Public Organization), or DASTA, recognizes the importance of developing cities within its special areas and tourism development zones to become part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. This will increase the cities' recognition among international target groups, create cultural environments and landscapes conducive to creativity, and provide the necessary infrastructure to support creative producers and businesses. Furthermore, it fosters the use of cultural diversity in creative endeavors, leading to the development of creative cities and the growth of creative tourism. This, in turn, contributes to economic growth and the creative industries, while also promoting cultural diversity – a crucial factor. The collaboration among all stakeholders towards becoming part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network fosters awareness and understanding of the relationships within the national network of organizations driving the UNESCO Creative Cities initiative. Pattaya City has submitted two creative initiative projects:
1. Project to develop a film studies curriculum for schools under the Pattaya City administration.
2. Urban Development Innovation Project, Office of Public Health and Environment.
This initiative garnered significant interest from attendees. On this occasion, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DAST) presented certificates and plaques for outstanding creative initiatives that demonstrate the diverse participation of people, enabling Pattaya to successfully advance towards becoming a Creative Film City. This success depends on the cooperation of all sectors – government, private sector, and the public – working together to drive Pattaya towards its goal of becoming a Creative Film City, fostering a creative economy and addressing the challenges of larger cities simultaneously through innovative thinking.
Credit: Public Relations Division, Administration Department, Office of Tourism and Sports.
