Kitchen Gardens to Boost Food Security in Surat Thani

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In a novel initiative to promote food security, a kitchen garden project is underway in Phanom, a district of Surat Thani, situated in southern Thailand. Always a sight to behold due to its lush greenery, the petite district is once again under the spotlight for its latest venture. This project, spearheaded by District Chief Suchau Tumosik in partnership with local leaders and community development networks, morphs idle space in front of the district office into verdant vegetable and herb gardens, echoing the royal guidance of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

 

The initiative, taken under the fiscal year 2025, is forward-thinking with a concept named Change for 5G. However, this isn't the electronic network, but a novel mantra; depicting Good & Food Security, Give & Share, Global & Environment, Group & Action Learning Centre, and Generations.

 

In kick-starting the campaign named Leaders Must Act First, district leaders have planted a series of indigenous vegetables and fragrant herbs such as turmeric, plai, and torch ginger flowers. Their simultaneous efforts to demonstrate local dishes brings to the fore the unique culinary heritage of the region which is known for traditional recipes and sustainable use of locally available ingredients.

 

Complementing the main agenda of food security, this project is also a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the area, offering locals an opportunity to reconnect with their roots while allowing the world an authentic taste of Phanom's unique cuisine.

 

 

During the event, various professional groups and networks from the district's Khlong Nong Na community demonstrated six popular local dishes, which embody the spirit of the Phanom district. These dishes illustrate the traditional knowledge of the community and the historical eating habits, deeply interwoven with the local lifestyle and the cultural practices of the region.

 

Endorsing HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s royal guidance of kitchen gardens, the Leaders Must Act First initiative serves as an excellent model for the rest of the country. It illustrates that sustainable food security, self-reliance, and enhanced quality of life are achievable through concerted communal efforts.

 

The local cuisine coupled with the gardening projects offers much more than palate satisfaction. They provide a glimpse at the unique identity of this quaint corner of Thailand and its deep-rooted traditions. This venture promises to bring change and progress, heralding a promising future, all while retaining the cultural essence of the community in Phanom.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-21