Bt8-bl boost for nation's cultural attractions

The funding has been approved for the implementation of 14 projects between this year and 2012.

They include improving the Thailand Cultural Centre, the promotion of creative cultural festivals, enhancement of lifelong learning centres, and adding value to communities' cultural tourism.

"We also plan to provide income opportunities to people through the promotion of arts and culture," Culture Minister Teera Slukpetch said yesterday at the Asia Cultural Ministerial Roundtable Meeting in Mongolia.

Teera told delegates from 22 countries, Asian governments were now aware their cultures can create income for their countries.

Teera said support for cultural assets like libraries, theatres, temples, historical sites, cultural parks, and cultural hubs also contributed to a country's development.

"Cultural attractions can draw in tourists," he pointed out.

Teera said his ministry, under the Abhisit Vejjajiva-led government, had also introduced Thai-cooking courses, music classes for children, and Thai traditional massage training.

"Our performance during the past six months was good. Of all 19 ministries, the Culture Ministry ranks in fourth place in people's satisfaction," he said.