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Koh Samui City Municipality launched an inspiring “Ribbon Creation” workshop empowering persons with disabilities, teaching traditional ribbon coin crafting as a potential income-generating skill. Deputy Mayor Natthaphon Rattanarak led this heartwarming initiative, demonstrating the municipality’s commitment to social inclusion and community development.
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Project Overview
On March 12, 2025, Koh Samui City Municipality inaugurated the “Ribbon Creation: Handicraft Creation” workshop, a community initiative designed to empower persons with disabilities and their caregivers. The event took place at 9:00 AM in the Phet Samui Meeting Room at the Koh Samui City Municipality Office. Mr. Natthaphon Rattanarak, Deputy Mayor of Koh Samui City, officiated the opening ceremony, which was well-attended by municipal council members, heads of government departments, municipal staff, and other relevant officials.
Aims and Objectives
The primary goal of this project is to promote social inclusion and improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities and those who care for them. By offering hands-on training in handicraft skills, the municipality seeks to enhance career opportunities and self-reliance among participants. The “Ribbon Creation: Handicraft Creation” workshop focuses on practical skill development, providing alternative avenues for generating income.
Workshop Activities
During the training, participants learned how to create ribbon coins, which are traditional crafts used in merit-making ceremonies and as souvenirs at important events. This skill is particularly meaningful in Thai culture, where ribbon coins carry symbolic value and are often present at religious and social gatherings.
The workshop covered various aspects of handicraft production, including:
- Material Selection: Understanding the types of ribbons and related supplies.
- Techniques: Step-by-step guidance on folding, shaping, and assembling ribbon coins.
- Creativity in Design: Encouraging participants to explore unique patterns and variations.
- Business Skills: Basic knowledge on how to market and sell handicrafts, both locally and through online platforms.
Social Welfare and Inclusion
The project is part of a broader municipal strategy to improve social welfare and promote equal opportunities. By focusing on persons with disabilities and their caregivers, the municipality aims to reduce barriers to employment and foster community engagement. The initiative aligns with national policies supporting the rights of persons with disabilities, emphasizing skill-building and economic participation.
Economic Impact
Handicraft production is a viable means for supplemental income, especially in tourist destinations such as Koh Samui. The municipality recognizes this potential and encourages participants to sell their ribbon creations at local markets, festivals, and tourist centers. The skills acquired through this project can be leveraged for home-based businesses, contributing to household incomes and financial independence.
Long-term Vision
Koh Samui City Municipality envisions the “Ribbon Creation: Handicraft Creation” project as a model for other community-based empowerment programs. By continuously providing resources, training, and support, the municipality aims to build lasting opportunities for people with disabilities and their families. Future plans may include expanding the range of handicraft workshops, creating networking opportunities among participants, and establishing partnerships with local businesses to further promote inclusive employment.
Additional Resources
For those interested in learning more about the project or viewing the workshop activities, a video overview is available on YouTube: Ribbon Creation Workshop Video.
The municipality also provides ongoing support through its Social Welfare Division, offering advisory services and access to resources for persons with disabilities and their caregivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ: Ribbon Creation – Handicraft Creation Project
What is the main purpose of the “Ribbon Creation: Handicraft Creation” project in Koh Samui?
The primary goal is to empower persons with disabilities and their caregivers by teaching them traditional ribbon coin-making skills, which can serve as a sustainable source of income. This initiative promotes social inclusion, economic participation, and improved quality of life for participants, while highlighting the municipality’s commitment to community development.
What skills and support do participants gain from the workshop?
Participants learn not only the art of making ribbon coins—including material selection, creative design, and crafting techniques—but also basic business skills such as marketing and selling their products locally or online. The municipality provides ongoing support and advisory services through its Social Welfare Division to help participants maximize their potential and income.
How does the project contribute to the local community and economy?
By encouraging the creation and sale of ribbon handicrafts, especially in Koh Samui’s tourism sector, the project helps participants generate supplemental income and achieve greater financial independence. It also serves as a model of inclusive community engagement, aligning with national policies that support the rights and opportunities of persons with disabilities.
