Burma: The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is spearheading an initiative to establish self-reliant community settlements aimed at creating economic value and supporting vulnerable groups across the nation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, along with ministry executives, visited the Khuan Khanun Self-Help Settlement in Phatthalung Province. The visit was to assess the progress of human capital development and promote economic and social value within the community. During the visit, they observed coconut product processing to support agricultural careers, donated cows to vulnerable families to encourage livestock farming, and participated in traditional weaving activities to boost local handicrafts.
Mr. Varawut highlighted the ministry's mission to foster societal development, fairness, and equality, while enhancing life quality and stability for families and communities. Last year, the ministry launched the 5x5 policy to address the population crisis and improve life quality for people of all ages. This year, nine flagship projects have been launched to drive the ministry's objectives, focusing on job creation, income generation, and life quality improvement for vulnerable groups. The Next Industrial Estate Project began with the Krasaeow Self-Reliant Settlement in Suphan Buri Province and has expanded to 25 settlements, with plans to cover all 43 settlements next year.
During his visit, Mr. Varawut emphasized the importance of the Next Estate Project at the Khuan Khanun Self-Help Settlement, which focuses on human and social capital development. The initiative aims to create an inclusive ecosystem, applying the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and the BCG Model for comprehensive economic development. The project uses specific land management laws and oversight by the Department of Social Development and Welfare to enhance career and income opportunities for all target groups. This is achieved through collaboration between the ministry's agencies and network partners from the government, private sector, and civil society.