Governor Sophon, along with Anupap Wechwanichsanong, Vice President of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), and other prominent leaders signed the MoU at the Seabed Grand Hotel in Wichit yesterday (July 9).
The collaboration involves network partners from the public and private sectors, business community, educational institutions, and civil society, all aiming to promote gender equality and protect LGBTQ+ rights.
Signatories to the MoU included Phuket Town Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas; Chernphon Kanchanasaya, Chairman of the Andaman Provincial Industrial Council; Kongsak Koophongsakorn, President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce; Thanawat Ongcharoen, Vice President of the Phuket Tourist Association; representatives from Andaman Power Phuket Group along with representatives from a host of other key local organisations.
Various community and association representatives also party to the MoU included the Phuket Old Town Association, Thai Hotels Association (Southern Chapter), Phuket Industrial Council, Phuket Real Estate Association, Kata-Karon Beach Hotel Operators Association, Patong Beach Hotel Association, Phuket City Development Co ltd (PKCD, Phuket Health Spa Association, Phuket Boutique Accommodation Association, Andaman Tour Guide Association, Phuket Private Schools Association, Phuket Tour Operators Association, Phuket Tourism Industry Council, Thai Travel Services Association, Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, Phuket 30 Car Association, Phuket Non-Formal Schools Association and the Andaman Coast Provincial Industrial Council.
The MOU’s key objectives are to:
- Spread knowledge and understanding about gender equality.
- Protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Prevent unfair gender discrimination.
- Promote training on gender equality.
- Organise campaigns and activities related to gender equality.
At the event, Governor Sophon also announced Phuket’s readiness to host the InterPride World Conference in 2025, said an official report of the MoU signing.
Phuket hosting such an event would showcase the island’s commitment to advancing equality and supporting the LGBTQ+ community, the report said.