Great news for Koh Samui seniors! The Elderly Welfare Center in Taling Ngam has renewed its MOU, ensuring continued vibrant activities, health programs, and vocational training. This vital center, supported by Surat Thani PAO and Koh Samui City Municipality, remains a shining hub for community well-being!
Background of the Koh Samui District Elderly Welfare Center
The Koh Samui District Elderly Welfare Center, located in Taling Ngam Subdistrict of Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Province, is a community facility completed in 2020. Its development was financed by the Surat Thani Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO). The center serves as a venue for a variety of elderly-focused programs, including health promotion activities, vocational training for local careers, preservation of indigenous wisdom, and dissemination of information relevant to senior citizens in the region. The facility is a central hub to support the well-being and active lifestyles of the elderly.
Previous Cooperative Agreement
Following the center’s construction, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the Surat Thani PAO and Koh Samui City Municipality. This agreement ensured that the building would be managed and utilized primarily for elderly welfare purposes, benefiting the local community by providing accessible services and programs. The original MOU established clear guidelines for maintenance, operations, and shared responsibilities between both governmental agencies.
Recent Discussions to Renew the MOU
On November 11, 2025, a meeting convened at the Education Office of the Surat Thani PAO brought together key stakeholders. Participants included Mr. Natthaphon Rattanarak (Deputy Mayor, Koh Samui City Municipality), Mr. Seksan Sisa-at (Deputy Municipal Clerk), Mrs. Benyanit Wiangwaera (Director of Social Welfare Division), other municipal staff, and representatives from the Koh Samui City Municipality Elderly Organization. Representing Surat Thani PAO was Mr. Thanakom Ruennpanich, Deputy Chief Executive, along with the executive team.
During the discussions, it was highlighted that the existing MOU had expired on September 28, 2025. With ongoing demand and positive community feedback, the Koh Samui City Municipality formally requested to continue operations at the center. The Surat Thani PAO affirmed its support, expressing willingness for the arrangement to persist and endorsing another five-year term for the agreement.
Scope and Goals of the New MOU
The renewed MOU will cover the continued use and management of the building for elderly-focused programs. Strategic objectives include:
- Supporting health and wellness activities for the senior population
- Providing spaces for vocational workshops and skill development
- Preserving and sharing local knowledge and traditions
- Offering a centralized hub for elderly-related information and assistance
- Encouraging social inclusion and active participation among the elderly
Both organizations emphasized mutual cooperation to ensure the effective and appropriate use of the center, aligning with local development goals.
Role of Koh Samui City Municipality and Surat Thani PAO
The Koh Samui City Municipality is responsible for day-to-day operations, program coordination, and engagement with local elderly groups. The Surat Thani PAO provides overarching support, including funding for infrastructure and ongoing administrative collaboration. Their joint effort exemplifies an integrated approach to public welfare, targeting a growing elderly demographic on the island.
Vision for a Smart and Sustainable Community
The ongoing collaboration takes place under the broader vision for Koh Samui as a smart and sustainable island, aiming to offer a high quality of life for all residents. This vision aligns with regional priorities to develop inclusive facilities and holistic services as part of the island’s long-term development strategy.
Community Participation and Future Developments
The Elderly Welfare Center encourages community involvement, not only from seniors but also from volunteers, caregivers, and local vocational trainers. Future discussions and periodic reviews of the MOU will ensure the center remains responsive to emerging needs and policy changes affecting elderly welfare in Koh Samui and the Surat Thani province.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of renewing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Koh Samui District Elderly Welfare Center?
The renewed MOU ensures that the Elderly Welfare Center in Taling Ngam continues to offer vital services, including vibrant health programs, vocational training, and preservation of local wisdom. This agreement secures the center as a hub for elderly well-being, managed by the Koh Samui City Municipality with support from the Surat Thani PAO for another five years.
Who manages and supports the Elderly Welfare Center and what are their roles?
Day-to-day operations, program coordination, and community engagement are overseen by the Koh Samui City Municipality. The Surat Thani Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) provides infrastructure funding and administrative support. Their combined efforts ensure effective management and sustainable programming at the center.
How does the center promote community participation and what are its future goals?
The center invites involvement from seniors, volunteers, caregivers, and local trainers, fostering an inclusive environment. Ongoing reviews and community input help adapt activities to the needs of the elderly, supporting Koh Samui’s vision of a smart, sustainable, and inclusive island.
