As Bangkok adapts to urbanisation, Healthy Space Benjakiti Park emerges as part of a global health promotion initiative, hosting over 20 INHPF delegates during their 20th International Network of Health Promotion Foundations meeting. This collaborative project by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and Thai Health Foundation aims to encourage healthier urban lifestyles, fostering physical activities and safe spaces in the city. It aligns with Bangkok's commitment to promote well-being and economic growth by creating spaces that prioritise health and meet the demands of modern urban living.
During the 20th International Network of Health Promotion Foundations meeting held in Bangkok from November 7 to 10, 2023, more than 20 INHPF delegates from six countries had the opportunity to visit "Healthy Space Benjakiti Park." This initiative is part of Bangkok's response to the challenges posed by ongoing urbanisation, where inner city areas have expanded to suburban outskirts to alleviate traffic congestion and environmental pollution.
Aligned with global health promotion frameworks, "Healthy Space Benjakiti Park" is one of 30 designated areas created through collaboration between the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Thai Health Foundation. Its purpose is to promote healthier lifestyles among the public, in line with international health promotion goals.
Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej of Bangkok, who was present during the visit, emphasised, "The collaborative health park projects are launched to foster physical activities among urban residents. The space design also prompts urbanites to make lifestyle shifts, such as walking to work or engaging in regular exercises, while promoting safe spaces in Bangkok to increase access to healthy habits."
Thailand, represented by ThaiHealth, is one of the eight members of the INHPF network, which includes organisations such as Australia's Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, Australia's Health and Wellbeing Queensland, Western Australian Health Promotion Foundation, Korea Health Promotion Institute, Taiwan Health Promotion Administration, Tonga Health Promotion Foundation, and Singapore Health Promotion Board. These organisations commit to strengthening cooperation to enhance well-being and health promotion globally.
ThaiHealth is renowned for its ability to engage stakeholders from various sectors, including government, academia, private enterprises, public advocates, and international organisations. This multi-stakeholder approach ensures diverse perspectives and enables the development of comprehensive health promotion plans and frameworks tailored to modern lifestyles and public demands.
Dr. Pairoj Saonuam, Assistant Chief Executive Officer of ThaiHealth, highlighted, "Healthy Space Benjakiti Park boasts over 600,000 fully grown trees, contributing to our target of 1 million trees. This initiative spans over 30 communities in Bangkok and emphasises sustainable health promotion, providing public access to practical health activities. Collaboration with local communities and academics allows for customised space design tailored to the unique context and needs of each area."
While Bangkok's Healthy Space initiative is currently underway, similar projects are taking shape in other provinces across Thailand, including Roi-et, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. ThaiHealth remains committed to promoting healthy lifestyles and stimulating economic growth by creating tourism destinations that prioritise well-being. It continuously explores new trends and creative approaches to address the evolving lifestyles of urban and local communities.