Sufficiency village takes shape in Yala

First of its kind in restive region

By Wassana Nanuam

A village designed specifically around the royally-initiated sufficiency economy principle has begun to take shape in Betong district of Yala, apparently inspired by Her Majesty the Queen's admiration of the geographical beauty of the local area.

Betong municipal mayor Khunawut Mongkolprajak said a budget of 164 million baht has been allocated to build the village close to the Thai-Malaysian border. It is the first village of its kind in the restive border region.

He said he had accompanied the Queen on one of her trips to Betong and she spoke of the district's beautiful landscape and its fine weather.

The mayor added that she had made it known she wanted a house built for her in the district.

"The people of Betong heard of Her Majesty's words and were delighted," Mr Khunawut said.

"The local residents want the Queen to visit us because it's difficult to reach us. We feel we're so far away from anywhere."

The Queen's words prompted the municipality to establish the sufficiency economy village equipped with a study pavilion for her.

About 50 houses in the project have been completed, with most now occupied by former communist insurgent, the majority of whom work on nearby farms in a royally-initiated development programme. Another 20 houses are currently under construction.

The sufficiency economy principle stresses the importance of living within one's means, said Mr Khunawut.

Bangkok Post

Last Updated : Sunday April 08, 2007