A Call for Serious and Continuous Application of Sufficiency Economy Philosophy

(25/08/2011)

A survey conducted by the National Statistical Office has called for serious and continuous application of the Sufficiency Economy philosophy. The survey was conducted by the National Statistical Office on the 2011 Sufficiency Economy Community project, carried out the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office. It shows that most people, at 78 percent, know about the project, mainly from television. Only 22 percent of the respondents to the survey said that they did not have information about this project. Divided by region, people in the Northeast, at 83 percent, know about the Sufficiency Economy Community project most, followed by those in the North, the South, Bangkok, and the central region. Regarding the application of the Sufficiency Economy philosophy, the survey indicates that northeastern residents have benefited most, at 83.7 percent, from the adoption of this philosophy, while Bangkok residents have adopted this philosophy the least of all people in the country. The Sufficiency Economy Community project was approved by the Cabinet in January 2009, as part of the Government’s economic stimulus program at the community level, based on the Sufficiency Economy concept. It was adjusted from the “SML” – “small, medium, and large” – project, which was intended to encourage villagers to take part in solving community problems in response to local needs. The survey also shows that most participating communities have opted to apply this philosophy to projects concerning agriculture, occupational and income promotion, and the provision of public facilities. They are of the opinion that these projects will help generate employment and income, improve their living conditions, and empower communities. Sufficiency Economy is a philosophy developed by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej to provide guidance on how to find contentment through moderation. His Majesty has encouraged the Thai people to be “self-reliant” through the use of technology and in their economy. Especially they must basically have food for consumption, access to natural resources, and a strong society. In short, what His Majesty has expounded in his numerous speeches is the application of the Sufficiency Economy philosophy to the lives of people at all levels and the development of the country. When Thailand was facing a crisis in 1997, His Majesty gave more frequent and plain speeches on the application of the Sufficiency Economy in 1998 and 1999. Government agencies, individuals, and members of the private sector have paid visits to study royally initiated projects. They all have applied the Sufficiency Economy philosophy, particularly among farmers in rural areas. In all provinces, there are study centers to learn about the Sufficiency Economy philosophy where interested people may visit and take training courses. The knowledge gained can be used in their life and work.