BANGKOK, Thailand — Government communicators, media professionals, content creators, and influencers from across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) gathered in Bangkok for the “Journey of ASEAN Flavours,” a collaborative initiative hosted by Thailand’s Public Relations Department.
The event celebrates ASEAN’s rich culinary traditions while highlighting the role of food heritage in promoting regional food security.
Nutthanun Rajanakorn, executive director of Thailand’s Foreign Office, emphasized the project’s mission to deepen cultural understanding and foster stronger connections among member states through cuisine.
“We aim to promote ASEAN identity through food, while also opening the floor for participants to exchange creative ideas for producing impactful content centered on our shared culinary heritage,” Rajanakorn said.
The program introduced delegates to local agricultural tourism sites—farms that have been transformed into experiential travel destinations—demonstrating how food production can drive economic growth and support sustainable development.
Participants also enjoyed immersive culinary experiences that highlighted collaborations between government agencies and food entrepreneurs. These efforts showcased how local producers are being empowered to play a vital role in the national and regional food economy.
Traditional Thai dishes were prominently featured, encouraging visiting delegates to champion their national cuisines and use food as a bridge to connect with other ASEAN countries, ultimately contributing to a more integrated regional economy.
Delegates hailed from the 10 ASEAN member states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and including Timor-Leste. (OTB/PIA Region 2)