Hope for APEC on sustainable development goals

23 Sept 05:34 Key points summarised by AI

APEC host Thailand promotes a bio-circular-green economy, but experts advocate for leaders to ensure sustainable development is inclusive, addressing social and environmental dimensions beyond just economic growth.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are often misconstrued as solely environmental; they encompass 17 comprehensive goals covering diverse societal aspects like education, gender equality, and poverty eradication.
Despite being a major food exporter, Thailand faces a significant challenge in achieving "zero hunger," as the goal extends beyond food availability to include food sovereignty, farming diversity, nutrition, and farmer incomes.
Critics highlight that governments may focus on superficially meeting SDG indicators, while the private sector often uses sustainability as a marketing tool rather than a deep, impactful commitment.
A call is made for APEC leaders to foster greater public participation and prioritize comprehensive sustainable development, ensuring no one is left behind, rather than solely focusing on economic metrics.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.