The event opened at 6pm on the central stage at Saphan Hin, with Department of Corrections Director-General Pol Lt Col Prawut Wongsinil presiding over the ceremony.
Phuket Governor Nirat Phongsitthaworn welcomed guests, noting that Phuket was honoured to host the expo, which brings together products and training programmes from prisons across the southern region. He underscored the importance of vocational development as a key element of modern rehabilitation, helping inmates build confidence and practical skills for life after release.
Phuket Provincial Prison Commandant Parinya Srithanyakaew presented an overview of this year’s expo, which features more than 25 prisons and correctional institutions from 14 southern provinces. Handicrafts and goods produced through inmate training programmes are on display and available for purchase, with proceeds supporting continued skills development.
As part of its updated rehabilitation policy, the Department of Corrections provided a dedicated platform at the event for LGBTQ+ inmates to showcase creative performances. Officials said the initiative aims to acknowledge human dignity, promote self-expression within a framework of discipline and respect, and encourage teamwork while preparing inmates for reintegration into society.
The stage activities drew strong interest from locals and tourists, many of whom browsed and purchased inmates’ handcrafted products, generating income for further vocational programmes.
The 19th Southern Royal Products Exhibition is open daily from 9am to 10pm at Saphan Hin until Nov 29.