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Lucknow Chosen As India's Candidate For UNESCO Gastronomic Creative City
Lucknow Chosen As India's Candidate For UNESCO Gastronomic Creative City

NDTV

time20 hours ago

  • NDTV

Lucknow Chosen As India's Candidate For UNESCO Gastronomic Creative City

Known as the "City of Nawabs," Lucknow has long been famous for its rich history, royal culture, and most importantly, its mouthwatering Awadhi cuisine. Now, this historic city is making a big move to put its culinary heritage on the global map by officially applying to join UNESCO's 'Creative Cities Network' (UCCN) under the category of Gastronomy. Established in 2004, UCCN celebrates cities that have shown exceptional creativity in culture, arts, and, in this case, food. Lucknow's unique Awadhi cuisine, with its slow-cooked kebabs, aromatic biryanis, and delightful sweets, perfectly fits the bill. According to Roshan Jacob, Lucknow's Divisional Commissioner, the city has been nominated by India for this prestigious tag, as per a report in the Hindustan Times. Now, the team is gathering more detailed information to submit by the end of June. If everything goes well, UNESCO experts might visit Lucknow soon to see the city's culinary culture firsthand. Mumbai-based consultant Abha Narain Lambah played a key role in putting together a detailed dossier about Lucknow's gastronomic heritage. The entire effort is closely monitored by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. What Makes Lucknow's Food So Special? Lucknow's food identity is deeply rooted in its royal past, where Nawabs and their chefs perfected dishes that continue to wow food lovers today. While the city is famous as a paradise for meat lovers, it also serves up an array of vegetarian dishes and snacks that make it a well-rounded food capital. Some iconic names and dishes from Lucknow include: Tunday Kebabs: Arguably the crown jewel of Lucknow's non-veg cuisine, these melt-in-your-mouth minced meat kebabs are legendary. The recipe is a closely guarded secret, but the taste speaks for itself. Kakori Kebabs: Another delicacy, these are named after the town of Kakori but are inseparable from Lucknow's food scene. Awadhi Biryani: Unlike other versions, Awadhi biryani is subtle and aromatic, cooked with layers of marinated meat and fragrant rice. Chaat And Street Foods: From basket chaat to paani ke batashe (water-filled hollow puris), Lucknow's street food scene is a delight for vegetarians and spice lovers alike. Khasta, Kachauri, And Bajpai Ki Puri: These crispy snacks are perfect for teatime munching. Sweets: No visit to Lucknow is complete without indulging in motichur ke laddu, malai paan, jalebi, and imarti with rabri. The UP government's tourism and culture departments are actively promoting this culinary diversity. The aim is to showcase Lucknow as a city that not only leads in non-veg delights but also charms vegetarians with its unique street foods and sweets. Lucknow already attracts nearly 48 million tourists every year, many of whom come eager to explore the city's famed food courts and street stalls. Major events like the G20 Summit and the UP Investors Summit have given a global boost to the city, with international leaders enjoying its culinary richness. For the unversed, India already has five other cities - Chennai, Hyderabad (for Gastronomy), Varanasi, Jaipur, and Mumbai - in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Each has been chosen for their unique cultural contributions. Lucknow hopes to join this elite list soon.

Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival returns this July 26-27 at SCV
Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival returns this July 26-27 at SCV

Borneo Post

time17-05-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Borneo Post

Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival returns this July 26-27 at SCV

Nancy (third left) performs the symbolic launch of the Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival 2025. Also seen are (from left) Jane, Shepherd, Nazrul, Anthony, and Gordan. – Information Department photo KUCHING (May 17): The Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival returns this year on a larger scale from July 26 to 27 at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV) near here. This special Sarawak Day edition of the festival is expected to attract at least 20,000 visitors and will feature 200 carefully selected vendors across seven key categories. Minister for Women, Family, and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri said the festival, which began as a small celebration of Sarawak's culinary heritage, has now grown into a true reflection of Sarawakian identity. 'Nyamai is more than just food. It represents who we are – our heritage, creativity, and the spirit of the Sarawakian community. 'We must continue to preserve and elevate this culinary heritage, not only for ourselves but for the world,' she told a press conference here today. Nancy also recalled Kuching's recognition as a Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy in December 2021 – a significant achievement that now comes with the responsibility of preserving and promoting Sarawak's culinary heritage on an international scale. She said this year, Kuching City of Gastronomy and the Unesco Creative Cities Network (UCCN) remain strategic partners for Nyamai. This includes the prestigious Nyamai Awards, which recognises individuals and organisations contributing significantly to the creative, sustainable, and authentic advancement of Sarawak's food culture. Among the highlights of the Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival 2025 are traditional food demonstrations, craft art workshops, live music performances, cultural showcases, family-friendly activities, and interactive zones that display Sarawak's culinary diversity. Additionally, an exclusive '2 Days 1 Night Nyamai' accommodation package has been introduced in collaboration with Damai Beach Resort, Damai Lagoon Resort, and Permai Rainforest Resort. Moreover, an icon design competition has been launched in conjunction with the festival, where the winner will receive a cash prize of RM5,000, and their design will be turned into a permanent sculpture at SCV. Nancy also encouraged local entrepreneurs in the food, craft, beauty, and lifestyle sectors to participate as vendors and sponsors. 'This is the best platform to showcase your products to 20,000 visitors,' she said, adding that registration is available through the official website Entrance to the festival will be free, and visitors can redeem their passes via Nyamai Sarawak's official Facebook and Instagram pages. Also present at the press conference were SCV chief executive officer Jane Lian Labang, UCCN director Karen Shepherd, Damai Lagoon Resort and Damai Beach Resort general manager Anthony Lasong, Permai Rainforest Resort general manager Nazrul Nasihin, and Carus Sport & Event director Gordan Chung.

KL eyes Unesco Creative City status
KL eyes Unesco Creative City status

Free Malaysia Today

time25-04-2025

  • Business
  • Free Malaysia Today

KL eyes Unesco Creative City status

Mayor Maimunah Sharif said Kuala Lumpur's bid to join the Unesco Creative Cities Network has passed the initial screening. (Envato Elements pic) KUALA LUMPUR : Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has officially submitted its application for the capital to join the Unesco Creative Cities Network (UCCN), aiming to cement its status as a regional hub for creativity and innovation. Mayor Maimunah Sharif confirmed the development during a media briefing on the Warisan KL project, saying the application had passed the initial vetting process. 'We have already submitted our application to be in the Unesco Creative Cities Network,' she said. 'I have just received an email from Paris two days ago confirming that our application is in order. All the recommendations have been well received, and now they are going to the next stage.' If accepted, Kuala Lumpur will join a select group of global cities recognised for using creativity as a key driver for sustainable urban development. Earlier today, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim launched Warisan KL, a project to revitalise Kuala Lumpur through physical upgrades, cultural preservation, historical conservation, and strengthened community values. Anwar had previously announced the RM1 billion project to preserve the capital's historic landmarks. Maimunah said the March application differs from Malaysia's current Unesco World Heritage recognition, such as for George Town and Melaka, which are heritage-based listings. She said Kuala Lumpur's bid focuses on the city's vibrant creative landscape, which includes design, arts, music, gastronomy, and digital innovation. 'One of the criteria of the Creative Cities Network is the creativity we have in Kuala Lumpur that we want to promote and convey to people,' she said. Established in 2004, the UCCN is a flagship city programme that promotes cooperation among cities which have recognised culture and creativity as strategic drivers of sustainable urban development. As of 2022, there are almost 300 cities from about 90 countries in the network.

'Design Your Change: Up+Rise Bangkok' Bangkok Design Week 2025: A Showcase of Creative Solutions Transforming Bangkok's Future
'Design Your Change: Up+Rise Bangkok' Bangkok Design Week 2025: A Showcase of Creative Solutions Transforming Bangkok's Future

Associated Press

time19-02-2025

  • Business
  • Associated Press

'Design Your Change: Up+Rise Bangkok' Bangkok Design Week 2025: A Showcase of Creative Solutions Transforming Bangkok's Future

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 February 2025 - Bangkok is no longer just a city of vibrant lights and ceaseless energy—it has emerged as a design hub that's driving transformative change in urban living. By addressing challenges in city infrastructure, quality of life, environmental sustainability, and business innovation, Bangkok has positioned itself as a global leader in leveraging design to shape a better future. Over the past seven years, Bangkok Design Week (BKKDW) has demonstrated the power of creativity in redefining urban spaces and fostering growth in the creative industries. The festival has contributed over 3.19 billion baht to the economy, attracted more than 2.51 million visitors, and strengthened Bangkok's status as a City of Design under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Beyond numbers, it has revitalized once-quiet neighborhoods like Charoen Krung, Talad Noi, Hua Lamphong, and Pak Khlong Talad, turning them into thriving Creative Economy Districts. These transformations have created jobs, driven economic growth, and improved the quality of life for Bangkok's residents. As part of Bangkok Design Week 2025, designers and cross-sector collaborators are showcasing cutting-edge projects that underscore the potential of creativity to reshape cities. These works reflect how design can tackle pressing urban challenges, elevate communities, and open pathways for sustainable growth—all while reimagining Bangkok's future as a city that thrives on innovation and inclusivity. Design Your Change + Transforming Overlooked Spaces into Vibrant Public Areas Bangkok's dense urban population of over 5 million people makes it one of the most crowded cities in the world. While municipal budgets and policies alone are not enough to address the city's challenges, innovative design provides exciting solutions to reimagine Bangkok's limited spaces. One shining example is 'Prompt Park' a collaboration between we!park, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and the Netherlands Embassy. This project transforms unused land located under the expressway into a vibrant public park for relaxation and community gatherings. Designed with Dutch expertise in urban planning, Prompt Park integrates climate-resilient features, creating a functional space that addresses both environmental and urban needs. The park also features a Tactical Intervention installation that combines international urban planning expertise with creative solutions for Bangkok's challenges. Another we!park initiative transforms private land into a 'Pop-Up Park.' This flexible green space is open to people of all ages and offers a variety of activities. It demonstrates that public parks don't need to be restricted to government-owned land, creating a new model for urban greenery. Other innovative projects include 'MinutePocket_UrbanBed' by SP/N Design Studio, which reimagines neglected private plots as temporary structures such as napping pods and playgrounds for children. These creative installations highlight how unused land can be repurposed for the benefit of local communities. Meanwhile, Urban Ally's Puppup Parklet transforms two parking spaces into a small, temporary public area for relaxation. Located on Samran Rat Road, this compact but impactful initiative reclaims pedestrian spaces and offers an example of how even small design efforts can enhance urban life. In Yaowarat-Song Wat, Attention Studio is transforming limited spaces into 'Playground,' multifunctional areas that combine sports, art, and community engagement. This initiative maximizes the use of space to meet the diverse needs of one of Bangkok's busiest neighborhoods. Design Your Change + Using Design to Solve Persistent Urban Challenges Design is a key tool for addressing Bangkok's urban challenges, particularly those tied to daily life. MAYDAY! focuses on improving public transportation, shifting attention this year from buses to 'Songthaews,' Bangkok's iconic shared pickup trucks. Despite their decades of service, these vehicles face issues such as safety, comfort, and outdated designs that fail to accommodate all users. The Songthaew Transformation exhibition presents design solutions that tackle these problems, offering practical ways to modernize the songthaew for all commuters. Another project addressing urban problems is 'Street Vendor Grease Trap' by Everyday Architect Design Studio. This portable grease trap, designed for street food vendors, prevents clogged drains caused by food waste while doubling as a parking aid for carts. It's an ingenious example of how small-scale design can make a big difference in city management. The 'GAGEENANG' project was inspired by a love for Bangkok's vibrant street food culture, particularly the iconic plastic chairs found at food stalls throughout the city. By creatively addressing small yet impactful details, the project transforms these everyday chairs by covering the hole in the seat and adding a built-in storage tray for personal belongings. This simple yet thoughtful redesign enhances both comfort and convenience for diners. These upgraded chairs are already being used at select eateries in Yaowarat, further elevating the street food experience. Design Your Change + Promoting Environmental Awareness Bangkok's long-standing environmental challenges, from waste management to limited green spaces, have inspired innovative design solutions. One such project is the 'Mega Mat' by MVRDV Architects, created in collaboration with CEA (Creative Economy Agency), the Netherlands Embassy, and PTT Global Chemicals. This 860-square-meter recycled plastic mat draws on traditional Thai mat designs and transforms plastic waste into a functional public installation. Located at City Hall Square, the Mega Mat blends Thai heritage with sustainability while promoting recycling as a core value. Another standout project is 'Habitat Network' by AP Thailand. By creating green spaces to attract native bird species through urban forests, this initiative restores biodiversity in Bangkok's urban areas, proving that ecological balance can thrive even in densely populated cities. For a hands-on experience, visitors can join workshops in Bang Pho, a historic neighborhood celebrated for its wood industry, to create 'Sacred Incense Reinvented.' This activity highlights the local connection and sustainability by transforming teak sawdust, a byproduct of the community, into sacred offerings for Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine. Design Your Change + Energizing Businesses Through Creativity Creativity is not just a tool for enhancing quality of life or adding vibrancy to a city—it is also a powerful driver for business growth and innovation. A prime example is NEIGHBOURMART Bangkok, a marketplace for Bangkok lovers that celebrates local businesses. Created by CEA, in collaboration with the design team at iliU, NEIGHBOURMART curates products from local shops and nostalgic vendors across the city, reviving the charm of traditional grocery stores and corner shops that are rapidly disappearing. Visitors can discover vintage items like Roses brand sweet soy sauce, traditionally fermented in clay jars, or Mho Mee herbal inhalers, a nostalgic favorite for generations. Another highlight is Made in Phranakorn, a bold Business Matching project that connects creative professionals with long-standing local businesses in Bangkok's historic Phranakorn district. This initiative focuses on rebranding and modernizing classic products while retaining their authenticity. From heritage restaurants and vintage perfume brands to classic tea vendors and traditional snack shops, Made in Phranakorn helps businesses overcome challenges and unlock new potential for growth. The project showcases 'The Old Town's Favorite 5" as a testament to its success: Made in Phranakorn x Niyom Phochana (Sao Chingcha) by UA x Creator x Niyom Phochana Made in Phranakorn: Re-scented Pranakorn by Eqlibrum x Nangloy Made in Phranakorn x Yui Pheuak Tod (Sao Chingcha) by Jirayuth Pongwarut Made in Phranakorn x Bai Cha Rabbit Mark by Chitsuda Amornsak Made in Phranakorn x Orkraphan by Uksornsanan Finally, Creative House by CEA offers a showcase of over 60 exceptional creative businesses selected by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, in partnership with Capital, a leading business publication. This campaign, Creative House by CEA: Creativity x Business, aims to foster new business opportunities, generate revenue, and create jobs through the power of creativity. Design Your Change: Transforming Bangkok into a City That Leaves No One Behind Bangkok is embracing its identity as a city for everyone—a place where no one is left behind. With a focus on inclusivity and innovation, creative projects at Bangkok Design Week tackle challenges affecting various groups, including the elderly, children, and stray animals. One inspiring example comes from STUDIO150, which addresses a major shortfall in Thai educational tools. Current learning aids for children remain outdated and ineffective. In response, a mother teamed up with designers to create 'Thai Alphabet Flashcards' (Flashcards Kor-Hor), a learning tool that simplifies the process of remembering Thai letters while reducing common writing errors. By analyzing and illustrating the unique features of all 44 Thai consonants, the flashcards connect traditional learning with modern design, making them both engaging and effective. Continuing with a focus on children, the 'Little more+" exhibition by Keep Right sheds light on the hidden stories of small businesses in Bangkok's Salak Hin alley. This initiative grew out of the 'Kid Guides of Salak Hin' project, which identified a key issue: many tourists overlook local businesses due to unfamiliarity or lack of trust, favoring larger establishments instead. Through the voices of young guides, the exhibition encourages visitors to explore and support these small, community-driven businesses, helping them thrive in a competitive urban landscape. Inclusivity at Bangkok Design Week also extends to animals with the 'Stand for Strays : Catsanova+ Ordinary Little Dogs' initiative. This collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and private individuals addresses the issue of stray cats and dogs in urban areas. Eye-catching artwork, including painted cat-themed visuals, raises awareness of the importance of sterilization and adoption, promoting responsible care for stray animals. The program also facilitates proactive rehoming efforts, finding new families for animals rescued from municipal shelters. As aging is an inevitable part of life, the design team at RISE IMPACT has created the 'Redesign services for the 60s+" workshop to spark critical conversations about how safe, accessible, and enjoyable Bangkok will remain for its elderly residents. Through an interactive activity, participants are invited to step into the shoes of senior citizens living in a bustling metropolis. The workshop highlights the challenges of aging, from declining physical mobility and health to feelings of loneliness and vulnerability. By engaging in this thought-provoking experience, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the realities faced by the elderly and the importance of designing cities that truly cater to all ages. Bangkok Design Week: Redefining the City Through Creativity Bangkok Design Week 2025 has become a vital platform for showcasing how design can bring about meaningful change. From solving urban challenges to fostering inclusivity and sustainability, the festival inspires fresh perspectives on the role of creativity in everyday life. Through bold ideas and innovative solutions, the festival positions Bangkok as a global leader in creative urban transformation. Hashtag: #CEA #BKKDW2025 #BangkokDesignWeek #DesignUpRising The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization) or CEA About Bangkok Design Week Bangkok Design Week, first launched in 2018, has long been a fixture on the Bangkok event calendar It plays a pivotal role in fostering the creative economy and propelling Bangkok to stand out as a UNESCO Creative City Network, Bangkok City of Design. Organized by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization) or CEA in collaboration with over 60 public and private organizations, educational institutions, and international institutions, which draws an estimated number of 400,000 visitors at home and abroad each year. Bangkok Design Week is a growth engine for Thailand's creative industries in a variety of ways, including showcasing creative businesses and designs, stimulating competitiveness, providing a local and international business networking opportunity, and generating economic momentum for downstream businesses such as marketing, printing, online media, galleries, cafes, restaurants, gifts & souvenirs, travel, hotels, and public transportation. About Creative Economy Agency (CEA) Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, is a dedicated government agency tasked with fostering creativity as a key driver of the creative economy. CEA focuses on developing various creative industries and encouraging the manufacturing sector to adopt creative approaches to enhance product and service value, thereby elevating Thailand's global competitiveness.

"Design Your Change: Up+Rise Bangkok" Bangkok Design Week 2025: A Showcase of Creative Solutions Transforming Bangkok's Future
"Design Your Change: Up+Rise Bangkok" Bangkok Design Week 2025: A Showcase of Creative Solutions Transforming Bangkok's Future

Zawya

time19-02-2025

  • Business
  • Zawya

"Design Your Change: Up+Rise Bangkok" Bangkok Design Week 2025: A Showcase of Creative Solutions Transforming Bangkok's Future

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 February 2025 - Bangkok is no longer just a city of vibrant lights and ceaseless energy—it has emerged as a design hub that's driving transformative change in urban living. By addressing challenges in city infrastructure, quality of life, environmental sustainability, and business innovation, Bangkok has positioned itself as a global leader in leveraging design to shape a better future. Over the past seven years, Bangkok Design Week (BKKDW) has demonstrated the power of creativity in redefining urban spaces and fostering growth in the creative industries. The festival has contributed over 3.19 billion baht to the economy, attracted more than 2.51 million visitors, and strengthened Bangkok's status as a City of Design under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Beyond numbers, it has revitalized once-quiet neighborhoods like Charoen Krung, Talad Noi, Hua Lamphong, and Pak Khlong Talad, turning them into thriving Creative Economy Districts. These transformations have created jobs, driven economic growth, and improved the quality of life for Bangkok's residents. As part of Bangkok Design Week 2025, designers and cross-sector collaborators are showcasing cutting-edge projects that underscore the potential of creativity to reshape cities. These works reflect how design can tackle pressing urban challenges, elevate communities, and open pathways for sustainable growth—all while reimagining Bangkok's future as a city that thrives on innovation and inclusivity. Design Your Change + Transforming Overlooked Spaces into Vibrant Public Areas Bangkok's dense urban population of over 5 million people makes it one of the most crowded cities in the world. While municipal budgets and policies alone are not enough to address the city's challenges, innovative design provides exciting solutions to reimagine Bangkok's limited spaces. One shining example is" Prompt Park" a collaboration between we!park, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and the Netherlands Embassy. This project transforms unused land located under the expressway into a vibrant public park for relaxation and community gatherings. Designed with Dutch expertise in urban planning, Prompt Park integrates climate-resilient features, creating a functional space that addresses both environmental and urban needs. The park also features a Tactical Intervention installation that combines international urban planning expertise with creative solutions for Bangkok's challenges. Another we!park initiative transforms private land into a "Pop-Up Park." This flexible green space is open to people of all ages and offers a variety of activities. It demonstrates that public parks don't need to be restricted to government-owned land, creating a new model for urban greenery. Other innovative projects include " MinutePocket_UrbanBed" by SP/N Design Studio, which reimagines neglected private plots as temporary structures such as napping pods and playgrounds for children. These creative installations highlight how unused land can be repurposed for the benefit of local communities. Meanwhile, Urban Ally's Puppup Parklet transforms two parking spaces into a small, temporary public area for relaxation. Located on Samran Rat Road, this compact but impactful initiative reclaims pedestrian spaces and offers an example of how even small design efforts can enhance urban life. In Yaowarat-Song Wat, Attention Studio is transforming limited spaces into "Playground," multifunctional areas that combine sports, art, and community engagement. This initiative maximizes the use of space to meet the diverse needs of one of Bangkok's busiest neighborhoods. Design Your Change + Using Design to Solve Persistent Urban Challenges Design is a key tool for addressing Bangkok's urban challenges, particularly those tied to daily life. MAYDAY! focuses on improving public transportation, shifting attention this year from buses to "Songthaews," Bangkok's iconic shared pickup trucks. Despite their decades of service, these vehicles face issues such as safety, comfort, and outdated designs that fail to accommodate all users. The Songthaew Transformation exhibition presents design solutions that tackle these problems, offering practical ways to modernize the songthaew for all commuters. Another project addressing urban problems is"Street Vendor Grease Trap" by Everyday Architect Design Studio. This portable grease trap, designed for street food vendors, prevents clogged drains caused by food waste while doubling as a parking aid for carts. It's an ingenious example of how small-scale design can make a big difference in city management. The "GAGEENANG" project was inspired by a love for Bangkok's vibrant street food culture, particularly the iconic plastic chairs found at food stalls throughout the city. By creatively addressing small yet impactful details, the project transforms these everyday chairs by covering the hole in the seat and adding a built-in storage tray for personal belongings. This simple yet thoughtful redesign enhances both comfort and convenience for diners. These upgraded chairs are already being used at select eateries in Yaowarat, further elevating the street food experience. Design Your Change + Promoting Environmental Awareness Bangkok's long-standing environmental challenges, from waste management to limited green spaces, have inspired innovative design solutions. One such project is the " Mega Mat" by MVRDV Architects, created in collaboration with CEA (Creative Economy Agency), the Netherlands Embassy, and PTT Global Chemicals. This 860-square-meter recycled plastic mat draws on traditional Thai mat designs and transforms plastic waste into a functional public installation. Located at City Hall Square, the Mega Mat blends Thai heritage with sustainability while promoting recycling as a core value. Another standout project is"Habitat Network" by AP Thailand. By creating green spaces to attract native bird species through urban forests, this initiative restores biodiversity in Bangkok's urban areas, proving that ecological balance can thrive even in densely populated cities. For a hands-on experience, visitors can join workshops in Bang Pho, a historic neighborhood celebrated for its wood industry, to create "Sacred Incense Reinvented." This activity highlights the local connection and sustainability by transforming teak sawdust, a byproduct of the community, into sacred offerings for Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine. Design Your Change + Energizing Businesses Through Creativity Creativity is not just a tool for enhancing quality of life or adding vibrancy to a city—it is also a powerful driver for business growth and innovation. A prime example is NEIGHBOURMART Bangkok, a marketplace for Bangkok lovers that celebrates local businesses. Created by CEA, in collaboration with the design team at iliU, NEIGHBOURMART curates products from local shops and nostalgic vendors across the city, reviving the charm of traditional grocery stores and corner shops that are rapidly disappearing. Visitors can discover vintage items like Roses brand sweet soy sauce, traditionally fermented in clay jars, or Mho Mee herbal inhalers, a nostalgic favorite for generations. Another highlight is Made in Phranakorn, a bold Business Matching project that connects creative professionals with long-standing local businesses in Bangkok's historic Phranakorn district. This initiative focuses on rebranding and modernizing classic products while retaining their authenticity. From heritage restaurants and vintage perfume brands to classic tea vendors and traditional snack shops, Made in Phranakorn helps businesses overcome challenges and unlock new potential for growth. The project showcases "The Old Town's Favorite 5" as a testament to its success: Made in Phranakorn x Niyom Phochana (Sao Chingcha) by UA x Creator x Niyom Phochana Made in Phranakorn: Re-scented Pranakorn by Eqlibrum x Nangloy Made in Phranakorn x Yui Pheuak Tod (Sao Chingcha) by Jirayuth Pongwarut Made in Phranakorn x Bai Cha Rabbit Mark by Chitsuda Amornsak Made in Phranakorn x Orkraphan by Uksornsanan Finally, Creative House by CEA offers a showcase of over 60 exceptional creative businesses selected by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, in partnership with Capital, a leading business publication. This campaign, Creative House by CEA: Creativity x Business, aims to foster new business opportunities, generate revenue, and create jobs through the power of creativity. Design Your Change: Transforming Bangkok into a City That Leaves No One Behind Bangkok is embracing its identity as a city for everyone—a place where no one is left behind. With a focus on inclusivity and innovation, creative projects at Bangkok Design Week tackle challenges affecting various groups, including the elderly, children, and stray animals. One inspiring example comes from STUDIO150, which addresses a major shortfall in Thai educational tools. Current learning aids for children remain outdated and ineffective. In response, a mother teamed up with designers to create"Thai Alphabet Flashcards" (Flashcards Kor-Hor), a learning tool that simplifies the process of remembering Thai letters while reducing common writing errors. By analyzing and illustrating the unique features of all 44 Thai consonants, the flashcards connect traditional learning with modern design, making them both engaging and effective. Continuing with a focus on children, the "Little more+" exhibition by Keep Right sheds light on the hidden stories of small businesses in Bangkok's Salak Hin alley. This initiative grew out of the "Kid Guides of Salak Hin" project, which identified a key issue: many tourists overlook local businesses due to unfamiliarity or lack of trust, favoring larger establishments instead. Through the voices of young guides, the exhibition encourages visitors to explore and support these small, community-driven businesses, helping them thrive in a competitive urban landscape. Inclusivity at Bangkok Design Week also extends to animals with the"Stand for Strays : Catsanova+ Ordinary Little Dogs" initiative. This collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and private individuals addresses the issue of stray cats and dogs in urban areas. Eye-catching artwork, including painted cat-themed visuals, raises awareness of the importance of sterilization and adoption, promoting responsible care for stray animals. The program also facilitates proactive rehoming efforts, finding new families for animals rescued from municipal shelters. As aging is an inevitable part of life, the design team at RISE IMPACT has created the "Redesign services for the 60s+" workshop to spark critical conversations about how safe, accessible, and enjoyable Bangkok will remain for its elderly residents. Through an interactive activity, participants are invited to step into the shoes of senior citizens living in a bustling metropolis. The workshop highlights the challenges of aging, from declining physical mobility and health to feelings of loneliness and vulnerability. By engaging in this thought-provoking experience, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the realities faced by the elderly and the importance of designing cities that truly cater to all ages. Bangkok Design Week: Redefining the City Through Creativity Bangkok Design Week 2025 has become a vital platform for showcasing how design can bring about meaningful change. From solving urban challenges to fostering inclusivity and sustainability, the festival inspires fresh perspectives on the role of creativity in everyday life. Through bold ideas and innovative solutions, the festival positions Bangkok as a global leader in creative urban transformation. Hashtag: #CEA #BKKDW2025 #BangkokDesignWeek #DesignUpRising LINE: @bangkokdesignweek The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization) or CEA About Bangkok Design Week Bangkok Design Week, first launched in 2018, has long been a fixture on the Bangkok event calendar It plays a pivotal role in fostering the creative economy and propelling Bangkok to stand out as a UNESCO Creative City Network, Bangkok City of Design. Organized by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization) or CEA in collaboration with over 60 public and private organizations, educational institutions, and international institutions, which draws an estimated number of 400,000 visitors at home and abroad each year. Bangkok Design Week is a growth engine for Thailand's creative industries in a variety of ways, including showcasing creative businesses and designs, stimulating competitiveness, providing a local and international business networking opportunity, and generating economic momentum for downstream businesses such as marketing, printing, online media, galleries, cafes, restaurants, gifts & souvenirs, travel, hotels, and public transportation. About Creative Economy Agency (CEA) Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, is a dedicated government agency tasked with fostering creativity as a key driver of the creative economy. CEA focuses on developing various creative industries and encouraging the manufacturing sector to adopt creative approaches to enhance product and service value, thereby elevating Thailand's global competitiveness. Creative Economy Agency

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