Thailand Showcases Sustainable “Yona Waree : Ban Pak Pra Community Tourism" in Phatthalung

The National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), together with Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna Lampang, Maejo University–Chumphon, Prince of Songkla University, the Ban Pak Pra Rim-Lake
Rice Community Enterprise, and partner networks, launched the community-based tourism activity “Yona Waree : Ban Pak Pra Community Tourism.” The initiative is part of a project aimed at using integrated technologies and innovation to drive the BCG Economy Model and strengthen sustainable rice production communities adapting to climate change.

The project focuses on promoting environmentally friendly rice farming while supporting eco-agricultural and cultural tourism in Ban Pak Pra community, Phatthalung Province. The program combines modern technology and innovation with local wisdom to create added economic value, stimulate grassroots income, and preserve traditional lifestyles. The opening ceremony was attended by representatives from local government agencies, tourism officials, agricultural organizations, researchers, and farmers from the area.

Key highlights included a sunrise boat tour through mangrove scenery and giant lift nets, experiences with the region’s unique water buffaloes and lotus wetlands, and hands-on participation in Thailand’s only organic “rim-lake rice farming” tradition. Visitors also learned about “Hom Na Le ” rice, a flood- and salt-tolerant rice variety developed by BIOTEC and its partners to address climate challenges in coastal areas. Additional activities featured traditional rice processing demonstrations, local dessert making, handicrafts from sedge plants, and southern Thai cuisine using fresh local ingredients. The event reflects the importance of applying innovation and the BCG Model to create sustainable, environmentally friendly community economies while preserving the unique cultural heritage of the Songkhla Lake Basin.