The meeting, held from 9:30am to noon at the offices of Muang Pattana Co Ltd, was chaired by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat.
Joining him were Boonperm Intanapasat, President of the Thai International Festival and Events Promotion Association (TIEFA), Anchalee Vanich Thepbutr, President of the Phuket Arts Association, as well as representatives from both the public and private sectors, and local communities.
This year’s festival, scheduled for June 20-22, is part of the national ‘Festival Economy 2025’ campaign under the ‘Arts and Culture Festival for Tourism and Economic Promotion’ project, explained an official report of the meeting.
The festival is being organised through a collaboration between the Phuket Provincial Office, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), TIEFA and the Peranakan Association of Thailand.
With a focus on celebrating and promoting the unique Baba-Nyonya culture of Phuket, the event aims to position the province as a cultural hub on the international stage. Organisers hope to stimulate sustainable tourism and generate economic opportunities for local communities.
Key events during the festival Include:
Friday, June 20
10:00-12:30: International Conference and Exhibition on ‘Key to the Success of the Peranakan Cultural Economy’ at Phuket Merlin Hotel (venue to be confirmed)
13:30–16:30: Community Workshop on ‘Sharing Culture and Best Practices’ at Phuket Thai Hua Museum
Saturday, June 21
17:00-19:30: *Phuket Peranakan Carnival Parade* under the theme “Island of Artistic,” featuring a spectacular fireworks display at Saphan Hin Public Park
Sunday, June 22
18:00-20:00: Phuket Hokkien Noodle Stir-fry event featuring dishes from over 200 communities and restaurants. The event aims to break a Guinness World Record and celebrate the festival receiving a host of awards.
Governor Sophon noted that the festival not only serves to preserve and celebrate Peranakan heritage, but also provides a platform to showcase Phuket’s rich cultural identity to the world.
“This initiative will play a crucial role in strengthening the local economy, empowering communities, and reinforcing Phuket’s status as a global cultural tourism destination,” he said.
The festival is expected to attract both local residents and international visitors, marking another milestone in Phuket’s recovery and cultural development.