Held at the Pullman Karon Beach Phuket Resort, the forum attracted over 150 leaders and policymakers from island destinations worldwide, including Hainan Province in China, Jeju Island in Korea, Okinawa in Japan and Bali in Indonesia.
The opening ceremony, presided over by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, set the tone for discussions centred on sustainable tourism and community development.
Delegates shared visions for the future of island tourism, with a particular focus on challenges posed by climate change, green finance, and biodiversity conservation. Topics such as the impacts of climate change on tourism and strategies for building resilience were key areas of discussion.
Later in the day, a cooperation agreement was signed, and Bali, Indonesia, will receive the host flag for the next forum.
Today (Sept 26), participants will embark on a study tour of Phuket’s sustainable tourism practices, including efforts to transform the city into a carbon-neutral tourism hub by 2030.
A visit to Phuket Town will also provide delegates with an immersive experience of Thai hospitality and culture.